When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I am working to make that impact at Spelman College. I am currently majoring in English with a minor in Film and Cultural Studies. I plan to utilize these mediums to bring more attention to different social issues in my life, particularly in the field of journalism. Attending an HBCU, too, means a great deal to me as it is the school of my grandmother and aunt. I am working to uphold their legacy and become a steward of others. One of our school's mottos is "Women who Serve." This means that the penultimate goal once one leaves Spelman is to become someone who serves others and advocates for social change. I strive to become that person, and I know I still have much more to learn. I plan to use these skills that I have learnt in order to serve my family and community.

The reason I decided to pursue a career in teaching is because of one of my students from my time at an AmeriCorps program called Generation Teach. Generation Teach is a program run by AmeriCorps that has the goal of co-creating loving communities where generations of students, teachers, and leaders learn, grow, and develop. I am proud to be an AmeriCorps member, as well as a member of GenTeach. I met this particular individual during my first year at Generation Teach, a middle-school student named Paolo. Paolo was a rather shy and quiet kid who had trouble connecting with others (I would later learn that he had autism spectrum disorder from reading his 504.) He rarely spoke up in class and preferred to draw on the back of the assignments we gave him, or cut up pieces of cardboard to build contraptions. The first day, Paolo was subdued and quiet, staring down at the paper that we had given him. He had trouble writing as quickly as the other students, and was inclined not to talk to them. I had personal experience with this kind of situation, as I had been that kid in middle school too. As well as being a rather timid child, I had grown up alongside my twin sister, who is also on the autism spectrum. For years, I had taken care of her alongside my parents in regard to food, hygiene, school, etc. so interacting with someone like Paolo was nothing new to me. As well as sharing these similarities, Paolo and I are both mixed Black individuals. To encourage Paolo, I asked him about his interests (building things, singing), favorite things (dinosaurs, Minecraft), and ultimately he began to slowly open up. By the end of the summer, he had become an outgoing person who had made a few close friends. Watching him bloom into his fullest self made me feel incredibly proud of him. He was a brilliant kid, and I was lucky to have been witness to his experiences at GenTeach. My time at GenTeach influenced my future goals—I ended up coming back for the summer of 2024, as well as considering education as one of my career aspirations. Being able to inspire and interact with students from different backgrounds inspired me to consider pursuing a career in teaching. The ability of teachers to positively impact young students always inspired me when I was younger. I have countless stories of the teachers who have motivated me, and I want to be that person for others.

The reason I decided to pursue a career in teaching is because of one of my students from my time at an AmeriCorps program called Generation Teach. Generation Teach is a program run by AmeriCorps that has the goal of co-creating loving communities where generations of students, teachers, and leaders learn, grow, and develop. I am proud to be an AmeriCorps member, as well as a member of GenTeach. I met this particular individual during my first year at Generation Teach, a middle-school student named Paolo. Paolo was a rather shy and quiet kid who had trouble connecting with others (I would later learn that he had autism spectrum disorder from reading his 504.) He rarely spoke up in class and preferred to draw on the back of the assignments we gave him, or cut up pieces of cardboard to build contraptions. The first day, Paolo was subdued and quiet, staring down at the paper that we had given him. He had trouble writing as quickly as the other students, and was inclined not to talk to them. I had personal experience with this kind of situation, as I had been that kid in middle school too. As well as being a rather timid child, I had grown up alongside my twin sister, who is also on the autism spectrum. For years, I had taken care of her alongside my parents in regard to food, hygiene, school, etc. so interacting with someone like Paolo was nothing new to me. As well as sharing these similarities, Paolo and I are both mixed Black individuals. To encourage Paolo, I asked him about his interests (building things, singing), favorite things (dinosaurs, Minecraft), and ultimately he began to slowly open up. By the end of the summer, he had become an outgoing person who had made a few close friends. Watching him bloom into his fullest self made me feel incredibly proud of him. He was a brilliant kid, and I was lucky to have been witness to his experiences at GenTeach. My time at GenTeach influenced my future goals—I ended up coming back for the summer of 2024, as well as considering education as one of my career aspirations. Being able to inspire and interact with students from different backgrounds inspired me to consider pursuing a career in teaching. The ability of teachers to positively impact young students always inspired me when I was younger. I have countless stories of the teachers who have motivated me, and I want to be that person for others.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

I would choose Hanya Yanagihara's "A Little Life" as the book I would give to everyone in the world because it presents a deeply moving narrative that delves into the complexities of life. This coming-of-age story follows a young man's journey from adolescence to early adulthood, capturing the essence of growth and self-discovery. The exploration of themes such as love, loss, identity, and friendship resonates with readers on a profound level, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences and relationships. What makes "A Little Life" truly exceptional is its poignant portrayal of trauma, abuse, love, and friendship. The author, Hanya Yanagihara, skillfully weaves these elements together to create a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and captivating. Through the eyes of the main character, readers are drawn into a world filled with pain, yet also with moments of profound connection and vulnerability. The intricate bonds he forms with those he loves serve as a testament to the enduring power of human relationships, even in the face of adversity. Yanagihara's meticulous research into the effects of trauma is evident in her eloquent writing, which expertly conveys the emotional depth of each character's journey. The raw authenticity of the storytelling allows readers to immerse themselves fully in the struggles and triumphs of the characters, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding. "A Little Life" stands out as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope. In conclusion, "A Little Life" is a spellbinding and inspiring novel that leaves a lasting impact on those who read it. From the richly drawn characters to the beautifully crafted prose to the subtle touches of humor that infuse moments of levity into the narrative, every aspect of the book is a testament to Yanagihara's talent as a storyteller. Through her masterful storytelling, she invites readers to contemplate the complexities of life and the enduring power of love and friendship. "A Little Life" is not just a book; it is a profound exploration of the human experience that lingers in the hearts and minds of its readers long after the final page is turned.

From the moment I entered this world, my existence was marked by defiance against the odds. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the nurses were astounded by my small size, with one even remarking that she had eaten steaks larger than me. The doctors gave me a less than five percent chance of survival, warning my family of the potential health issues and disabilities I might face if I did make it. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey began with a fierce battle for life, filled with daily medical interventions such as heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days of fighting, alongside my surviving sister, I was finally discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This experience, this struggle for survival, has shaped the very core of my being—I know deep in my soul that I deserve to be here because I defied all the odds against me from the very beginning. My identity is a tapestry woven from threads of resilience, cultural heritage, and family. Growing up as a biracial Black woman with four siblings, including a twin sister on the autism spectrum, has taught me the value of understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds. My family, with its rich tapestry of cultural influences and traditions passed down through generations, has played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. I am grateful to hail from a family that values philanthropy and community upliftment, instilling in me a deep sense of responsibility to give back to society. The examples set by my grandparents during the Civil Rights Movement, their tireless dedication to social justice and equality, have left an indelible mark on my conscience, teaching me the importance of making a positive impact on the world. I know I deserve to be here so that I can continue their legacy of service and advocacy. My involvement in various community initiatives has further enriched my identity and fueled my aspirations. Being a member of AmeriCorps and participating in programs like Generation Teach and the Youth Advisory Council of Denver has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented communities, particularly students of color. Through these experiences, I have discovered my passion for education and advocacy, realizing that I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support for those in need. I know I deserve to be here not only to overcome my own struggles but also to work towards creating a more just and equitable society, especially for Black women and other women of color. Throughout my journey, I have come to understand that identity is not a fixed destination but a fluid and evolving process. My identity, shaped by my premature birth, family influences, and community engagements, is a testament to my resilience and determination. It is a reminder that I am here not just to survive, but to thrive and make a meaningful contribution to the world around me. My identity is not just about who I am as an individual, but how I can leverage my experiences and privileges to uplift others and drive positive change. As I look towards the future, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. I am committed to making a lasting impact at Spelman College, where I plan to continue my journey of self-discovery, learning, and growth. I know that I deserve to be here, not because of the challenges I have overcome, but because of the potential I hold to effect meaningful change in the world. My identity, forged through hardship, nurtured by family and community, and guided by a deep sense of purpose, is my driving force as I strive to make a difference, one step at a time. I am particularly drawn to Spelman College because of its historical significance and dedication to excellence in education for women of African descent. The institution stands as a symbol of empowerment, fostering an environment where intellectual curiosity is not only encouraged but celebrated. At Spelman, I am confident that I will find a community of like-minded individuals who, like me, are passionate about making a difference. The rigorous academic programs and the vibrant campus life will provide me with the tools and support I need to excel, both academically and personally. Moreover, Spelman's commitment to social justice aligns with my own aspirations. I am eager to engage with initiatives that address systemic inequalities and work towards creating a more just society. My experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective, and I believe that my voice can contribute to the ongoing dialogue about race, gender, and social justice on campus. By participating in service-learning programs and joining student organizations dedicated to advocacy and change, I aim to not only broaden my own understanding but also to positively influence those around me.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all the odds against me. My identity was formed from this experience at the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a significant role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel incredibly grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my maternal grandparents' philanthropic efforts and my paternal grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of using my privilege and resources to positively impact the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned that I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society. My parents have also been influential in shaping my identity. Their achievements in public health and pediatric care have inspired me ever since I was young. I am grateful for the opportunities they have provided me throughout my life so that, someday, I can achieve my goals. Recently, I have been interested in public health, with a particular focus on women's health, reproductive health, and global public health issues. As a Black biracial woman who has been raised with the concept of advocacy ingrained in me, I am deeply passionate about using my skills and knowledge to make a meaningful contribution to the betterment of others, particularly underserved and vulnerable populations. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

My life started with prayer. I was born 15oz at birth, a micro-preemie at 23 weeks, alongside my sisters, one of which passed. Stories of prayer circles populated my youth, because everyone around me and my sister wanted us to live. My relationship with Jesus has been an arduous journey. As a child, I went to a Christian school from first to eighth grade, and was able to glean knowledge about faith there. My parents also tended to take us to church on Sundays, though stopped because of our growing seven-person-family, my twin sister being on the autism spectrum. I started to lose my faith in high school, when I struggled with severe depression. I believed that God was not looking out for me. If He was, I thought, He would have helped me by now. My relationship with Jesus and God changed when I went back to my family's church after eight years. My mental health was a struggle then, and I was losing hope. Our new pastor, a woman, began to speak, then, and everything clicked into place. One of the struggles I had as a child was understanding the concept of God and my relation to Him. As a biracial girl, I have been surrounded with images of white men as depictions of God and Jesus. I had trouble relating to God and Jesus because I didn't feel that I was represented. I didn't see myself in God. That changed when I went to church again. Listening to a woman speak about God and Jesus and our relation to Him as women made me feel more connected to my faith. She spoke in a way that was at once reverent and analytical of the Bible, of God. When she spoke, I could feel the warmth of God's presence. It made me feel the love of Him. At the time, I was reconciling with a recent break-up, and I remembered that God surpasses us as the best lover. Regardless of where I go in life, I will always have someone who loves me. Jesus is a man that I look up to in terms of making a positive impact on the world. I hope to be a loving, caring person who accepts and loves everyone. I plan to pursue Psychology or Women's Studies at Spelman College in the fall. I hope to carry His presence within me, and to exemplify his teachings through my academic and social life. I am holy too, I thought in the church that day. I am holy too.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all the odds against me. My identity was formed from this experience at the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a significant role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel incredibly grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my maternal grandparents' philanthropic efforts and my paternal grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of using my privilege and resources to positively impact the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned that I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society. My parents have also been influential in shaping my identity. Their achievements in public health and pediatric care have inspired me ever since I was young. I am grateful for the opportunities they have provided me throughout my life so that, someday, I can achieve my goals. Recently, I have been interested in public health, with a particular focus on women's health, reproductive health, and global public health issues. As a Black biracial woman who has been raised with the concept of advocacy ingrained in me, I am deeply passionate about using my skills and knowledge to make a meaningful contribution to the betterment of others, particularly underserved and vulnerable populations. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not just about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world.

I want to pursue my interested endeavor because I believe it is integral to making the world a better place.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. This is how I feel I can be successful. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Success is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all odds against me. My identity was formed from the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of positively impacting the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. My community involvement has also shaped my identity and what I strive for, particularly being a member of AmeriCorps. In the summer of 2023, I participated in the program Generation Teach, a teaching fellowship where I learned how to develop and implement lesson plans to teach underrepresented middle school students, which was an absolute joy and cemented my desire to educate and assist others, particularly students of color. Throughout the years, I have been involved in programs like these, such as a fellowship with the Piton Foundation and being a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Denver—collaborating with our district attorney to find resolutions to certain social justice issues. Through these experiences, I have learned I can be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support while working towards a more equitable society, particularly for Black women and other women of color. As I’ve learned throughout life, identity is not a fixed destination but rather a process that constantly evolves and changes. My identity, composed of prematurity, family influences, community involvement, and guidance provided to me, is a testimony to my resilience. I know I deserve to be here—not just to overcome the challenges I faced at the beginning of my life—but to contribute to the betterment of others. Identity is not about who I am as an individual but how I can make a positive impact on the world, and I plan to make that impact at Spelman College.

When I entered this world, the nurse said she’d eaten steaks bigger than me. Born prematurely at just fifteen ounces and twenty-three weeks gestation, the chances of my survival were less than five percent. The doctors warned my family that if I did survive, I would be burdened with numerous health issues and long-term disabilities. As one of three triplets born premature, my journey involved a long battle with daily medical interventions: heart surgery, ventilators, feeding tubes, and blood transfusions. After 102 days, alongside my surviving sister, I was discharged from the NICU. This experience shaped who I am—I know I deserve to be here because I defied all the odds against me. My identity was formed from this experience at the beginning of my life. My identity is woven from resilience, cultural heritage, and family. As a biracial Black woman growing up with four other siblings and a twin sister on the autism spectrum, understanding and accepting people from diverse backgrounds has been integral to my life experiences. My family has played a significant role in shaping my identity, a blend of cultural influences and traditions passed down from my mother, father, and grandparents. I feel incredibly grateful to come from a family with a custom of philanthropy and community upliftment. My identity would only be complete if I mentioned the inspiring examples set by my maternal grandparents' philanthropic efforts and my paternal grandparents' contributions to social justice during the Civil Rights Movement. Their dedication to giving back has taught me the importance of using my privilege and resources to positively impact the world. I deserve to be here so I can help make a difference. Mental illness has affected me greatly, as I struggle with anxiety, depression, and executive functioning that makes it challenging to complete tasks others would find easy. My extended family has also struggled with mental illness, and as a result emphasize the importance of receiving mental health help. I personally am in therapy and on certain medications that help me manage my day-to-day life in a way that works for me. I do not think that mental health issues should be seen in a negative light--everybody's brain works in a different way. This is something I have learned from having a twin with autism and two other siblings with ADHD. I am grateful for them due to the fact that they have allowed me to become a more thoughtful and kind person towards myself when it comes to my mental health.

The most inspiring and moving book I’ve read was A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, due to the fact that it is a deeply moving and poignant picture of trauma, abuse, love and friendship that culminates into a painful and spellbinding ending. As sad as the themes may seem, the main character was someone I ended up adoring, and the bonds he creates with those he loves are profound and affecting. The author seemed to really have taken such care to research the affects of trauma, and this is displayed quite well in her eloquent writing. In conclusion, A Little Life was the most spellbinding and inspiring novel I’ve read in quite a while, from the characters to the writing to the bits of humor sprinkled in that remind us that, there too, is hope in our little lives.