I’ve always believed that our dreams are not random; they’re rooted in who we are, where we come from, and what we feel called to change in the world. My dream is to use my education in Supply Chain Management to help small businesses thrive, increase access to resources in underserved communities, and lead with compassion and integrity. I am worth this dream because I’ve worked for it, I believe in its impact, and I carry a responsibility bigger than myself. Growing up, I’ve seen how much of a difference access can make. Whether it’s access to food, education, mentorship, or opportunity, those things can shape someone’s future. That’s why I volunteer with the University of Oklahoma’s Food Pantry. I want to be part of the solution to food insecurity, especially for students who are already dealing with so many challenges. This coming year, I’ll be joining the pantry’s logistics team to help behind the scenes using what I’m learning in my major to ensure efficiency, reliability, and care in how we serve others. My dream is to make that kind of service part of my everyday work, not just a side effort. I’m also part of OU’s First-Year Connections program, where I help African American freshmen get connected, find resources, and build community from day one. I know what it’s like to enter a space and feel unsure of where you belong, and I never want another young Black woman to feel like she has to figure it out on her own. Being a part of that support system has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. My dream is to create that same sense of belonging in every room I step into, whether that’s in boardrooms, community centers, or classrooms. Like many students, I’m navigating college while also managing financial pressures and the emotional weight of knowing how much is riding on my success. But these challenges don’t define me; they motivate me. I am worth the dreams I aspire to because I’m not just dreaming for myself. I’m dreaming for the small business owner who wants to serve her neighborhood but doesn’t know where to start. I’m dreaming for the student who needs a meal or a mentor to get through another day. I’m dreaming for the young girl watching me, hoping to see a reflection of her future in my steps. Woman’s Worth is about knowing what we carry as women. Our passion, our purpose, and our stories are more than enough. I’m walking toward my dream boldly, with open hands and a full heart. I just need the support to keep going.

Access to basic needs and a strong support system are two of the most important things a student can have, yet many students arrive on campus without either. That’s why I’ve committed myself to being part of the solution. One of the ways I’m currently addressing this issue is through my work with the University of Oklahoma’s Food Pantry. This pantry serves a specific community of students who are facing food insecurity and may not be able to consistently afford groceries. It’s heartbreaking to think that some students have to choose between paying for textbooks or buying food, but it’s a reality I’ve seen up close. By volunteering with the pantry, I help ensure that students don’t have to go hungry just to pursue their education. Next year, I’ll be taking on an even more active role as a member of the pantry’s logistics team. I’m majoring in Supply Chain Management, and I see this as an opportunity to apply my education in a meaningful way by helping organize deliveries, streamline inventory, and make sure food gets on the shelf to those who need it most. It’s important to me that I don’t just learn about business in a classroom, but also use it to do good in my community. In addition to this, I also serve on the First-Year Connections (FYC) team at OU, where we specifically focus on helping incoming African American freshmen find their footing and community on campus. College can feel overwhelming, especially for students of color who may not immediately see themselves reflected in their surroundings. Our team creates spaces for these students to meet, build relationships, and access resources that can support them academically, emotionally, and socially. I’ve seen how powerful it can be when someone feels seen and supported; it can change the entire course of their college experience. Through both of these roles, I’m doing my part to address the social issues of food insecurity and underrepresentation in higher education. These may seem like very different problems, but at their core, they both come down to equity. Every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued on campus, and I’m passionate about doing what I can to make that a reality. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of college but also allow me to continue focusing on service and leadership. I’m committed to being a voice for my community, to using my degree for something bigger than myself, and to honoring the people who have opened doors for me by holding those doors open for others.

I chose to major in Supply Chain Management because I want to be a part of the process that keeps businesses running and communities supported. I’ve always been someone who pays attention to how things work behind the scenes, and supply chains are the perfect example of that. They’re not just about logistics or numbers—they’re about people, communication, and keeping promises. I’m passionate about helping small businesses access the resources they need to grow and succeed, even in challenging circumstances. My ultimate goal is to work with businesses, especially small and mid-sized ones, to help them operate more efficiently, ethically, and sustainably. I believe that strong supply chains can make a real difference in a business’s ability to stay competitive and resilient. I’m particularly interested in maximizing budgets without compromising quality, and in finding ways to integrate sustainable practices into everyday decision-making. I want to support businesses in doing good while also doing well. What inspires me most is the idea of being a dependable presence in uncertain times. The world feels chaotic in so many ways, and I’ve seen firsthand how much businesses, especially local ones, struggle to stay afloat. I want to be someone who brings solutions, who listens to real concerns, and who shows up with a plan. I think that business should be about more than just profit. It should be about people, purpose, and making sure everyone involved in the process feels seen and supported. I’m also drawn to the human side of business. Building relationships, working in teams, and finding ways to connect with others to solve problems. I’ve had jobs in customer service and team environments, and I’ve learned how valuable it is to be patient, open-minded, and honest. Those values guide me in everything I do, and I plan to carry them with me into whatever career path I take. Neal Hartl’s story really resonates with me. He was known not just for his success, but for the way he made others feel respected, heard, and supported. That’s the kind of person I want to be, and the kind of professional I hope to grow into. Whether I’m working in supply chain strategy, marketing products, or managing a team, I want to lead with compassion, clarity, and drive. This scholarship would not only help relieve the financial burden of college but also motivate me to keep pushing forward, knowing that people believe in students like me. I’m committed to using my education to uplift others, and I hope to be a light in the sea of uncertainty, not just for my future clients or coworkers, but for my community and myself.

Theme: TikTok food 4x4 words 1. Sardines 2. Mussels 3. Anchovies 4. Mackerel 5 .Ramen 6. Beans 7. Eggs 8 .Rice 9. Forage 10 . Fish 11 . Trap 12 . Hunt 13. Blowtorch 14. Pickle 15. Ferment 16. Cure Group one (yellow): Tin Fish Tok words: sardines, Mussels, Anchovies, mackerel category name: Tinned Treasures Reasonings: These are different types of tinned fish that creators sample and review each month on Tinned Fish Tok. They often create charcuterie-style meals or pair them with complementary sides. Group 2 (green): Budget meals words: Ramen, Beans, eggs, rice Category name: Budget staples Reasonings: Affordable staples in every pantry that are filling. TikTok creators use these items to show low-cost meal ideas. I chose these words because they represent pantry-friendly basics. Group three (blue): Scrounge Around titkok words: Forage, Fish, Trap, Hunt Category name: Scrounge Around Reasoning: These represent the hunter-gatherer style of food content where creators go anywhere from the woods to the Atlantic seas to catch, forage, or trap their meals, then show their audience how to cook them. Group Four (Purple): DIY preservation Words: Blowtorch, Pickle, Ferment, Cure Category name: Ways to preserve food items Reasoning: The category encompasses creators who showcase food preservation methods, often utilizing tools or recipes such as pickling, fermenting, or curing meats. As someone who starts every morning with the Connections puzzle and a cup of iced coffee, I think it’s time for a much-needed brain break. Some days, I find myself thinking I need to go back to fifth grade with how hard I work to match the right words! That’s why I chose a fun and approachable theme for this puzzle. While not everyone may be familiar with the different corners of Food TikTok, this puzzle highlights the diverse ways we connect through food. During my first year of college, FoodTok became my go-to source for affordable, filling dinner ideas, daily entertainment, and even creative ways to use leftover fruit (spoiler alert: you can preserve it and turn it into syrup). Connections, along with other New York Times games, has not only helped me wake up my brain in the morning, but also taught me to find patterns in unexpected places. It’s a small part of my daily routine that’s had a surprisingly big impact.

Growing up, I always knew I wanted to make a difference. Not just in my own life, but in the lives of people around me. That desire truly became a passion when I began volunteering at ThriftWise, a local thrift store whose proceeds support the Fort Bend Women’s Shelter. What started as a way to give back to my community transformed my perspective on sustainability, advocacy, and the impact of everyday choices. As I helped organize donations and interact with customers, I realized that something as simple as buying a pair of jeans could have a powerful ripple effect. The money from that purchase could help provide shelter and safety for a woman escaping domestic abuse. I started to understand that sustainability isn’t just about protecting the environment, it’s also about uplifting people and communities, especially those who are often forgotten. This experience became even more personal when I connected it to my own life. My mother is a survivor of domestic abuse, and her strength shaped the person I am today. I grew up watching her work tirelessly to put food on the table and care for me and my four siblings, never letting hardship define her love for us. Her resilience taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of creating a better life, not just for ourselves, but for others. Volunteering at ThriftWise inspired me to get even more involved. I became a member of Planned Parenthood Teens, where I advocated for access to reproductive healthcare, comprehensive sex education, and women’s rights. I also continued volunteering, giving back to a cause that hits so close to home. Seeing the strength of the women there only deepened my commitment to making sure they are heard, protected, and empowered. Motivated by these experiences, I launched a Depop account to sell secondhand clothing and donate part of the proceeds to the Fort Bend Women’s Shelter. This small project has become a meaningful way for me to merge sustainable fashion with social impact. It reminds me that anyone, no matter their age or background, can create positive change. I believe I am a strong candidate for the Mark Green Memorial Scholarship because I embody the same values that Mark Green represented: resilience, determination, and a belief in the power of education to transform lives. As a college student studying Supply Chain Management, I want to use my degree to improve how resources are distributed, especially within nonprofit and social service sectors, so that support reaches those who need it most. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of college, but it would also help me ease my mother’s burden, allowing me to give back to the woman who gave everything for her children. Supporting me means supporting the next chapter of our family’s story, just as my mother did for us. With your support, I will continue honoring her strength, advocating for women, and pursuing a future where no one is left behind because of their circumstances.

Resilience is shown in many ways and forms. When my mom's dad died she continued to wake us up and get us ready ,when hurricane Harvey occurred and I saw the way my community came together to help those in need, when a winter storm came rolling through Houston and my uncle let us stay at his house to make sure we had shelter. Reseience is a beautiful and powerful trait to have and show others. Growing up my mother constantly showed resilience in her actions, because of this I found out what the meaning of resilience was and I was able to learn what it meant through her. She placed resilience in me so I could be an example for others. The power of resilience is something I have firsthand experience within my own life. Growing up surrounded by three younger siblings I was constantly looked at as the problem solver and secondary caretaker when my parents were working. Rather than succumbing to the difficulties that came with that responsibility, I used my experience to build a stronger mentality and foundation for my future. Building resilience is a long journey that constantly makes me want to inspire resilience in others. Having a resilient mindset means that you can bounce back from setbacks and transform adversity into an opportunity. Hoping to be able to inspire others in my community I have volunteered with young children during summer camps to help build problem-solving skills, became a mentor for the freshman at my high school through my school's AVID program, and in my own home have strived to teach my siblings the meaning of resilience. One particular experience that stands out when talking about resilences, is the time when I had an opportunity to mentor an AVID freshman who was having a difficult time in school due to academic pressure and personal challenges. Throughout the year I worked in contact with her and my AVID teachers to set meetings with her where she could ask me questions, get my advice on school and personal issues, find job opportunities, do tutorials, organize her materials, and work on her time management. I quickly noticed a shift in her attitude toward school and an improvement in her personal life! By instilling the belief in her that her challenges are not forever and she can turn those challenges into lessons for the future, we worked together to develop a successful plan for academic and personal achievements. Education also aids in the power of resilience. Education helps me build essential skills for the future and I plan to use this scholarship to help me gain useful knowledge to develop programs that foster resilience in young individuals facing adversity in their daily lives. To conclude, my journey has taught me resilience is not just about bouncing back from hardships but it's about growing and learning from them. Through mentoring, education, and community building I hope my resilient attitude can be rubbed off onto the people of my community, helping them navigate life with courage and strength. With the support of this scholarship, I am strongly confident in my ability to contribute to a more resilient future.

Life is a complex spiderweb full of sticky obstacles and setbacks. Obstacles often present themselves in unforeseen challenges, testing my resilience and determination every step of the way. However in the moment where we struggle the most, we are given the highest opportunity to grow and discover our true strength and potential. I will delve into the transformative power of overcoming challenges by recounting a time in my life when, like a small fly, I got heavily caught up in the sticky spider web of life. One of the most poignant examples of a time when I had a setback in my life was in my journey to overcome my mental health struggles. As a diligent and ambitious full-time student, the pressures of academic and personal struggles came down on me like a tsunami. Academic failure was not a common occurrence for me, but during my junior year, a plethora of filed grades rushed my way. Instead of my usual 93 to 100 grades, I became used to seeing 70-65s on my graded assignments. The weight of 6 different AP classes and academic struggles played a key part in depreciating my mental health. Along with academic pressure, I also had work obligations and extracurriculars to attend to. Working was a high priority in my life, coming from a financially struggling family, it was important that I was able to make my own money and take some financial strain off my parents. Additionally in an attempt to make my college resume sound better, joining and getting leadership positions in clubs was also something very important to me. having to keep up with work, school, and extracurriculars while also having my normal duties at home, such as watching my siblings my mental health continued to drown in the pressure. My mental setback quickly took a toll on every aspect of my life. My academic performance, although already low, declined more. The connections and relationships that I had with my friends became strained due to my own frustrations and poor time management. Time with my family was low because my jobs and extracurriculars and my own self-esteem plummeted fast. My once happy and loud personality was trapped inside an abyss of self-doubt and despair. The impact of my mental setback extended far beyond just school, affecting not only my academic standing but my well-being. However, within the depths of my struggles, I found a reservoir of strength and resilience. Instead of succumbing to despair, I sought out advice from friends, family, and close teachers. Realizing that the only one who could reach out to people for help was me, I took the first transformative journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. Through talking will teachers, tutoring, talking with my boss, and working out time management with my avid teacher, I gradually emerged from the shadows of the setback. The pivotal lesson learned was the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. I discovered the power of seeking support, both from within and from people around me. This mental setback instilled a newfound importance for my mental well-being and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This setback became a catalyst for academic growth and pushed me to create a stronger sense of self and purpose. I am not happy to say that I am on track to graduate with a 4.16 GPA, passed almost all of my AP exams, still have my job, and successfully helped run the clubs I was a part of.

The universe is our home. Our way to survive. An enigma that humans are constantly trying to figure out, yet I don't believe we ever will. The universe has so many secrets, some that are meant to be kept and some that humans have been able to discover. Our nature is extremely important to our well-being, and being able to understand the nature of our home helps us decide how we should take care of it. Understanding the universe helps us grasp our place within it. By studying celestial phenomena, we learn more about the origins of planets, stars, galaxies, and more gaining insight into the processes that led to the formation of our very own solar system and the stars we see outside our room every day. This knowledge gives us context for our existence and instills a strong profound sense of wonder and awe. As we comprehend the vastness and complexity of the universe, we develop a deeper and stronger appreciation for life on Earth and the delicate balance that sustains it. The study of the universe aids in technological innovation. Telescopes, space probes, and satellites are the result of advancements in engineering and physics. These technologies often find applications beyond their original purpose, benefiting society in very unexpected ways. For example, advancements in satellite technology have revolutionized communication, weather forecasting, and navigation. Medical imaging techniques, like MRI and CT scans, owe their development to technologies that were initially designed for space exploration. Thus, the pursuit of astronomical knowledge fosters technological progress that permeates various aspects of our everyday life. Sharing different ideas and concepts about the universe is crucial to advancing our collective understanding. Scientific progress relies on the collaboration and exchange of information. When researchers share their findings, they contribute to a global pool of knowledge that others can build upon. This collaborative approach accelerates discoveries and helps avoid redundant efforts, allowing scientists to tackle other complex questions. Additionally, sharing knowledge democratizes science, making it accessible to people from diverse backgrounds and encouraging participation from underrepresented groups. This inclusivity enriches the scientific community and fosters a broader range of perspectives and ideas. When I was a child hearing about the universe made me very curious. Learning about the different stars, galaxies, and dark holes piqued my interest far more than learning about multiplication tables. Instilling curiosity about the universe in young children is also important for the future of the exploration of the universe. Children are naturally curious and imaginative, traits that are downright essential for scientific inquiry. By encouraging their interest in the universe throughout school or through clubs and programs, we can nurture a generation of critical thinkers and problem-solvers. Hands-on activities and engaging content can spark a lifelong passion for discovery. When children are taught to explore, research, and seek answers, they develop skills that are valuable not only in science but in all areas of life. A scientifically literate society is better equipped to make informed decisions about world issues such as climate change. By fostering an early interest in the universe and how it works, we can cultivate a populace that values evidence-based reasoning and critical thinking. To effectively engage young minds, it is essential to make the study of the universe accessible. This can be achieved through interactive activities, planetarium shows, and educational programs. Schools can incorporate astronomy into their curricula, providing students with opportunities to observe the night sky and experiment. Digital resources, such as online simulations and virtual tours of space, can also enhance learning experiences. Understanding the universe is a pursuit that enriches our knowledge, drives technological innovation, and unites humanity in a common quest for understanding. Sharing ideas and concepts fosters collaboration and inclusivity, accelerating scientific progress. Encouraging curiosity about the universe in young children nurtures critical thinking and a passion for learning, laying the foundation for a scientifically literate society. By investing in education and outreach, we can inspire future generations to explore the universe, unlocking its mysteries for the benefit of all.

As someone extremely passionate about justice and representation, my future goal is to become a medical malpractice lawyer, dedicated to representing women who have suffered due to negligence within the healthcare system. My pursuit of becoming an MML is not merely a career choice but a calling to bring about a positive change in an area where accountability is paramount for the well-being of patients. Although I am currently a senior in high school, I plan to pursue a rigorous academic path in law and biology. I will dedicate my studies to gaining a deep understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding healthcare negligence, patient rights, and the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. During undergrad before law school, I plan to major in biology with a minor in law to understand medical terminology and the human body. I have worked hard to accomplish many things in my life. I am proud to say that I have a 4.16 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), have taken more than 5 AP classes, have over 58 volunteer hours, and am the president of the women in STEM club at my high school. Coming from a low-income, African American home with 4 siblings, learning hard work and dedication was a dire part of my growth as a person and a student. This hard work I have shown during high school will transfer into college and my post-graduate studies. Despite my constant determination and passion, my education journey has not been without its share of hardships and issues. One of these main issues is financial struggles. Challenges of finding affordable tutors, tests, and other costs associated with education present significant hurdles. Additionally having the responsibility to watch my younger siblings while also having to manage school put a heavy burden on my life. To alleviate some of these issues I talked with my teachers, found free or reduced options for studying, and worked with my AVID teacher to create a time management schedule for my junior year. These experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. I understand that in order to achieve my goal of becoming a medical malpractice lawyer I am expected to juggle demanding coursework, internships, and extracurricular commitments. All of these require a high level of dedication and discipline, however, through my experiences I have learned not to let hardships stop me but instead use them as a stepping stone and learning opportunity for my future. Challenges have not stopped me but have only fueled my determination to excel in my studies and make a meaningful impact on the legal field. Becoming a medical malpractice lawyer isn't just a personal aspiration, it is my duty and commitment to creating a fair and accountable healthcare system. I am confident through my education and unwavering dedication, I will be well-equipped to advocate for the rights of those who have suffered due to medical negligence. This scholarship will play a crucial role in alleviating the financial burdens associated with my educational journey, allowing me to focus on my studies and future advocacy work in the field of medical malpractice law.

Helping someone in need is something that we were all born to do. In a world filled with adversity and stereotypes, I have come to realize the power of self-love, especially for individuals facing financial struggles and racial discrimination. Growing up in a financially challenging environment, I witnessed firsthand the impact that economic hardships can have on someone's sense of self-worth and confidence. From my own experience, I know that financial hardships can create a plethora of internal struggles. For many African Americans facing financial struggles, the weight of social expectations, stereotypes, and systemic barriers can exacerbate feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. I quickly noticed this internal battle in my sister as she started to grow older. When my family's financial struggles reached the point where my 4 siblings and I had to live with my grandparents, we got introduced to another world. The new school we went to was full of children who grew up in a different economic standing than we did. The nice shoes, clothes, and teslas in the parking lot of the middle school didn't affect me much, but I saw jealousy in my sister's actions and words. I knew immediately that it was my job to help her build self-confidence and self-love. Throughout the next few weeks, I made sure to talk with her and get her perspective about our shared experience. After a while she opened up to me about the struggles she was facing, seeing people her age have more expensive and luxurious things that she knew she wasn't able to receive. She also opened up about racial stereotypes and discrimination she was experiencing since most of her classmates and "friends" weren't her color. After hearing about her experience I made sure to take her shopping at different thrift stores around town and give her advice on how to deal with racial discrimination in life. We both practiced the act of not comparing and instead focusing on our personal journey of growth. I sat down with her and created a 10-year plan of all the accomplishments that we wanted to achieve and we related our shared goal of giving ourselves the lives we always wanted as a child. In this plan, we both said going to college and getting a good education would help us accomplish our dreams. Not only did I share this idea with my sister, but I also encouraged my teachers to implement a 10-year plan activity in their classrooms to get students excited about being successful and completing more. Due to financial reasons, getting to college will be a challenge. This scholarship will not only alleviate the financial burden of education but also provide educational opportunities that can lead to personal and professional growth. Education has always catalyzed change, opening doors to a brighter future and instilling confidence in me and my abilities as a student. Helping my sister gain self-love and confidence has been one of my biggest accomplishments. My hours with her every week have helped her grow into a stronger woman and have a strong mindset about her future. I want to be an example to her and my community, that education is possible and paying for education is an option. In our lives, we have struggled with multiple financial burdens and don't want to find ourselves in a financially bad situation right outside of college. This scholarship represents more than just financial assistance, it symbolizes a commitment to breaking the cycle of self-doubt and financial struggles.

As someone extremely passionate about justice and representation, my future goal is to become a medical malpractice lawyer, dedicated to representing women who have suffered due to negligence within the healthcare system. My pursuit of becoming a MML is not merely a career choice but a calling to bring about a positive change in an area where accountability is paramount for the well-being of patients. Although I am currently a senior in high school, I plan to pursue a rigorous academic path in law and biology. I will dedicate my studies to gaining a deep understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding healthcare negligence, patient rights, and the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. During undergrad before law school, I plan to major in biology with a minor in law to understand medical terminology and the human body. I have worked hard to accomplish many things in my life. I am proud to say that I have a 4.16 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), have taken more than 5 AP classes, have over 58 volunteer hours, and am the president of the women in STEM club at my high school. Coming from a low-income, African American home with 4 siblings, learning hard work and dedication was a dire part of my growth as a person and a student. This hard work I have shown during high school will transfer into college and my post-graduate studies. Despite my constant determination and passion, my education journey has not been without its share of hardships and issues. One of these main issues is financial struggles. Challenges of finding affordable tutors, tests, and other costs associated with education present significant hurdles. Additionally having the responsibility to watch my younger siblings while also having to manage school put a heavy burden on my life. To alleviate some of these issues I talked with my teachers, found free or reduced options for studying, and worked with my AVID teacher to create a time management schedule for my junior year. These experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. I understand that in order to achieve my goal of becoming a medical malpractice lawyer I am expected to juggle demanding coursework, internships, and extracurricular commitments. All of these require a high level of dedication and discipline, however, through my experiences I have learned not to let hardships stop me but instead use them as a stepping stone and learning opportunity for my future. Challenges have not stopped me but have only fueled my determination to excel in my studies and make a meaningful impact on the legal field. Becoming a medical malpractice lawyer isn't just a personal aspiration, it is my duty and commitment to creating a fair and accountable healthcare system. I am confident through my education and unwavering dedication, I will be well-equipped to advocate for the rights of those who have suffered due to medical negligence. This scholarship will play a crucial role in alleviating the financial burdens associated with my educational journey, allowing me to focus on my studies and future advocacy work in the field of medical malpractice law.

As someone extremely passionate about justice and representation, my future goal is to become a medical malpractice lawyer, dedicated to representing women who have suffered due to negligence within the healthcare system. My pursuit of becoming an MML is not merely a career choice but a calling to bring about a positive change in an area where accountability is paramount for the well-being of patients. Although I am currently a senior in high school, I plan to pursue a rigorous academic path in law and biology. I will dedicate my studies to gaining a deep understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding healthcare negligence, patient rights, and the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. During undergrad before law school, I plan to major in biology with a minor in law to understand medical terminology and the human body. I have worked hard to accomplish many things in my life. I am proud to say that I have a 4.16 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), have taken more than 5 AP classes, have over 58 volunteer hours, and am the president of the women in STEM club at my high school. Coming from a low-income, African American home with 4 siblings, learning hard work and dedication was a dire part of my growth as a person and a student. This hard work I have shown during high school will transfer into college and my post-graduate studies. Despite my constant determination and passion, my education journey has not been without its share of hardships and issues. One of these main issues is financial struggles. Challenges of finding affordable tutors, tests, and other costs associated with education present significant hurdles. Additionally having the responsibility to watch my younger siblings while also having to manage school put a heavy burden on my life. To alleviate some of these issues I talked with my teachers, found free or reduced options for studying, and worked with my AVID teacher to create a time management schedule for my junior year. These experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. I understand that in order to achieve my goal of becoming a medical malpractice lawyer I am expected to juggle demanding coursework, internships, and extracurricular commitments. All of these require a high level of dedication and discipline, however, through my experiences I have learned not to let hardships stop me but instead use them as a stepping stone and learning opportunity for my future. Challenges have not stopped me but have only fueled my determination to excel in my studies and make a meaningful impact on the legal field. Becoming a medical malpractice lawyer isn't just a personal aspiration, it is my duty and commitment to creating a fair and accountable healthcare system. I am confident through my education and unwavering dedication, I will be well-equipped to advocate for the rights of those who have suffered due to medical negligence. This scholarship will play a crucial role in alleviating the financial burdens associated with my educational journey, allowing me to focus on my studies and future advocacy work in the field of medical malpractice law.

The intersection between veganism and my passion is easy to connect. My passion for women's rights has grown over the last four years. Following COVID-19, I started to become more and more educated about women's rights issues and the unequal treatment of women in the work environment. Additionally, by volunteering at a women's shelter, running the women in STEM club at my school, joining the young leaders planned parenthood in my area, and taking online women's leadership classes I have learned and educated myself about issues surrounding women's rights. The intersecting between veganism and women's rights is rooted in the understanding of systems of oppression and the fact that both movements share common ground in advocating for justice, equality, and compassion. Here are just a few ways the two movements are connected. Both movements bring attention to the exploration and objectification of living beings. Within the women's rights movements, it involves addressing objectification, gender-based violence, and unequal treatment. Similarly, veganism challenges the exploration of animals for food, clothing, testing, and more. In regards to the environment, both movements acknowledge the environmental consequences of their issues. Animal agriculture, which contributes highly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and pollution, affects marginalized communities. Women, especially in developing countries, often bear the brunt of environmental degradation. Veganism with its effort to push for sustainable living, aligns with the women's rights movement to mitigate these detrimental environmental issues. Economic factors play a large role in both movements. In the womens rights movement addressing and fighting economic inequality is a key component. With the vegan movement, they recognize the economic impact of the meat and dairy industries, which tend to exploit workers and consumers. Supporting ethical sustainable practices in both contribute to a more equitable society. Both movements emphasize the importance of promoting health and well-being. Women's rights advocates work to ensure that access to healthcare and challenge social expectations related to body image. Veganism, through a plant-based diet, aligns with promoting health and reducing the risk of many diseases. Both share a clear concern for human well-being. Lastly, both veganism and women's rights share a common foundation of empathy and compassion. Both movements encourage humans to consider the impacts of their choices on others and challenge societal norms that could harm people. They both embrace compassion as a guiding principle. In my everyday life, these intersections manifest in my consumer choices, and advocacy for policy changes, and make me more committed to fostering inclusive and equitable spaces. For example, although I am not vegan seeing a movement that stands for the health of beings makes me support their lifestyle. By recognizing and addressing these intersections, others and I can learn to work together toward a more just and compassionate work that uplifts all.

Life is a complex spiderweb full of sticky obstacles and setbacks. Obstacles often present themselves in unforeseen challenges, testing my resilience and determination every step of the way. However in the moment where we struggle the most, that we are given the highest opportunity to grow and discover our true strength and potential. I will delve into the transformative power of overcoming challenges by recounting a time in my life when, like a small fly, I got heavily caught up in the sticky spider web of life. One of the most poignant examples of a time when I had a setback in my life was in my journey to overcome my mental health struggles. As a diligent and ambitious full-time student, the pressures of academic and personal struggles came down on me like a tsunami. Academic failure was not a common occurrence for me, but during my junior year, a plethora of filed grades rushed my way. Instead of my usual 93 to 100 grades, I became used to seeing 70-65s on my graded assignments. The weight of 6 different AP classes and academic struggles played a key part in depreciating my mental health. Along with academic pressure, I also had work obligations and extracurriculars to attend to. Working was a high priority in my life, coming from a financially struggling family, it was important that I was able to make my own money and take some financial strain off my parents. Additionally in an attempt to make my college resume sound better, joining and getting leadership positions in clubs was also something very important to me. having to keep up with work, school, and extracurriculars while also having my normal duties at home, such as watching my siblings my mental health continued to drown in the pressure. My mental setback quickly took a toll on every aspect of my life. My academic performance, although already low, declined more. The connections and relationships that I had with my friends became strained due to my own frustrations and poor time management. Time with my family was low because my jobs and extracurriculars and my own self-esteem plummeted fast. My once happy and loud personality was trapped inside an abyss of self-doubt and despair. The impact of my mental setback extended far beyond just school, affecting not only my academic standing but my well-being. However, within the depths of my struggles, I found a reservoir of strength and resilience. Instead of succumbing to despair, I sought out advice from friends, family, and close teachers. Realizing that the only one who could reach out to people for help was me, I took the first transformative journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. Through talking will teachers, tutoring, talking with my boss, and working out time management with my avid teacher, I gradually emerged from the shadows of the setback. The pivotal lesson learned was the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. I discovered the power of seeking support, both from within and from people around me. This mental setback instilled a newfound importance for my mental well-being and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This setback became a catalyst for academic growth and pushed me to create a stronger sense of self and purpose. I am not happy to say that I am on track to graduate with a 4.16 GPA, passed almost all of my AP exams, still have my job, and successfully helped run the clubs I was a part of.

As someone extremely passionate about justice and representation, my future goal is to become a medical malpractice lawyer, dedicated to representing women who have suffered due to negligence within the healthcare system. My pursuit of becoming a MML is not merely a career choice but a calling to bring about a positive change in an area where accountability is paramount for the well-being of patients. Although I am currently a senior in high school, I plan to pursue a rigorous academic path in law and biology. I will dedicate my studies to gaining a deep understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding healthcare negligence, patient rights, and the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. During undergrad before law school, I plan to major in biology with a minor in law to understand medical terminology and the human body. Just like John, I have worked hard to accomplish many things in my life. I am proud to say that I have a 4.16 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), have taken more than 5 AP classes, have over 58 volunteer hours, and am the president of the women in STEM club at my high school. Coming from a low-income, African American home with 4 siblings, learning hard work and dedication was a dire part of my growth as a person and a student. This hard work I have shown during high school will transfer into college and my post-graduate studies. Despite my constant determination and passion, my education journey has not been without its share of hardships and issues. One of these main issues is financial struggles. Challenges of finding affordable tutors, tests, and other costs associated with education present significant hurdles. Additionally having the responsibility to watch my younger siblings while also having to manage school put a heavy burden on my life. To alleviate some of these issues I talked with my teachers, found free or reduced options for studying, and worked with my AVID teacher to create a time management schedule for my junior year. These experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. I understand that in order to achieve my goal of becoming a medical malpractice lawyer I am expected to juggle demanding coursework, internships, and extracurricular commitments. All of these require a high level of dedication and discipline, however, through my experiences I have learned not to let hardships stop me but instead use them as a stepping stone and learning opportunity for my future. Challenges have not stopped me but have only fueled my determination to excel in my studies and make a meaningful impact on the legal field. Becoming a medical malpractice lawyer isn't just a personal aspiration, it is my duty and commitment to creating a fair and accountable healthcare system. I am confident through my education and unwavering dedication, I will be well-equipped to advocate for the rights of those who have suffered due to medical negligence. This scholarship will play a crucial role in alleviating the financial burdens associated with my educational journey, allowing me to focus on my studies and future advocacy work in the field of medical malpractice law.

Helping someone in need is something that we were all born to do. In a world filled with adversity and stereotypes, I have come to realize the power of self-love, especially for individuals facing financial struggles and racial discrimination. Growing up in a financially challenging environment, I witnessed firsthand the impact that economic hardships can have on someone's sense of self-worth and confidence. From my own experience, I know that financial hardships can create a plethora of internal struggles. For many African Americans facing financial struggles, the weight of social expectations, stereotypes, and systemic barriers can exacerbate feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. I quickly noticed this internal battle in my sister as she started to grow older. When my family's financial struggles reached the point where my 4 siblings and I had to live with my grandparents, we got introduced to another world. The new school we went to was full of children who grew up in a different economic standing than we did. The nice shoes, clothes, and teslas in the parking lot of the middle school didn't affect me much, but I saw jealousy in my sister's actions and words. I knew immediately that it was my job to help her build self-confidence and self-love. Throughout the next few weeks, I made sure to talk with her and get her perspective about our shared experience. After a while she opened up to me about the struggles she was facing, seeing people her age have more expensive and luxurious things that she knew she wasn't able to receive. She also opened up about racial stereotypes and discrimination she was experiencing since most of her classmates and "friends" weren't her color. After hearing about her experience I made sure to take her shopping at different thrift stores around town and give her advice on how to deal with racial discrimination in life. We both practiced the act of not comparing and instead focusing on our personal journey of growth. I sat down with her and created a 10-year plan of all the accomplishments that we wanted to achieve and we related our shared goal of giving ourselves the lives we always wanted as a child. In this plan, we both said going to college and getting a good education would help us accomplish our dreams. Due to financial reasons, getting there will be a challenge. This scholarship will not only alleviate the financial burden of education but also provide educational opportunities that can lead to personal and professional growth. Education has always catalyzed change, opening doors to a brighter future and instilling confidence in me and my abilities as a student. Helping my sister gain self-love and confidence has been one of my biggest accomplishments. My hours with her every week have helped her grow into a stronger woman and have a strong mindset about her future. I want to be an example to her, that education is possible and paying for education is an option. In our lives, we have struggled with multiple financial burdens and don't want to find ourselves in a financially bad situation right outside of college. This scholarship represents more than just financial assistance, it symbolizes a commitment to breaking the cycle of self-doubt and financial struggles.

Resilience is shown in many ways and forms. When my mom's dad died she continued to wake us up and get us ready ,when hurricane Harvey occurred and I saw the way my community came together to help those in need, when a winter storm came rolling through Houston and my uncle let us stay at his house to make sure we had shelter. Reseience is a beautiful and powerful trait to have and show others. Growing up my mother constantly showed resilience in her actions, because of this I found out what the meaning of resilience was and I was able to learn what it meant through her. She placed resilience in me so I could be an example for others. The power of resilience is something I have firsthand experience within my own life. Growing up surrounded by three younger siblings I was constantly looked at as the problem solver and secondary caretaker when my parents were working. Rather than succumbing to the difficulties that came with that responsibility, I used my experience to build a stronger mentality and foundation for my future. Building resilience is a long journey that constantly makes me want to inspire resilience in others. Having a resilient mindset means that you can bounce back from setbacks and transform adversity into an opportunity. Hoping to be able to inspire others in my community I have volunteered with young children during summer camps to help build problem-solving skills, became a mentor for the freshman at my high school through my school's AVID program, and in my own home have strived to teach my siblings the meaning of resilience. One particular experience that stands out when talking about resilences, is the time when I had an opportunity to mentor an AVID freshman who was having a difficult time in school due to academic pressure and personal challenges. Throughout the year I worked in contact with her and my AVID teachers to set meetings with her where she could ask me questions, get my advice on school and personal issues, find job opportunities, do tutorials, organize her materials, and work on her time management. I quickly noticed a shift in her attitude toward school and an improvement in her personal life! By instilling the belief in her that her challenges are not forever and she can turn those challenges into lessons for the future, we worked together to develop a successful plan for academic and personal achievements. Education also aids in the power of resilience. Education helps me build essential skills for the future and I plan to use this scholarship to help me gain useful knowledge to develop programs that foster resilience in young individuals facing adversity in their daily lives. To conclude, my journey has taught me resilience is not just about bouncing back from hardships but it's about growing and learning from them. Through mentoring, education, and community building I hope my resilient attitude can be rubbed off onto the people of my community, helping them navigate life with courage and strength. With the support of this scholarship, I am strongly confident in my ability to contribute to a more resilient future.

Throughout my life, I have had eczema. It was clear from the moment I came out of the womb when hypopigmentation started spreading slowly in my right arm due to the extensive dryness and itchiness this condition posed. Walking through life hiding my puss-filled hands from my peers when I would get flare-ups on my hands. The frustrated emotions that would rise after I found another dry spot on my back after just solving the dry patch that appeared on my neck. Eczema is like a sticker that continues to attach itself to my life. Understanding eczema is a journey that am I still experiencing, the knowledge that I had about eczema was very minuscule. When I was in elementary and Mr. Dean asked me what the lighter spots on my arm were, I replied " I don't know, do you know ?", unsurprisingly he didn't know either. That day when I got home I immediately went to my mom and asked her what caused my "skin to be so white " she told me it was my eczema. For the next few years, people would ask me the same question as Mr. Dean, and I would reply with what my mom told me, but I never understood what it was. When I started getting older, I would have flare-ups in my hands where little bubbles of sticky puss would form all over and an overwhelming sensation of itchiness would occur to the point where the only form of relief was running my hand over scorching hot water so my hand would feel numb. In late middle school, I decided to start gaining information on my condition to help mitigate the problems that were occurring, and it changed my life. I was able to understand eczema better and connect with other TikTokers on social media who have the same condition and experiences that I have experienced. From social media, I was able to find ways to help my eczema and relieve the pain that comes with it, discover new medications, and share my story with others through DMs on Instagram. Through my research I was able to discover how many women have several forms of eczema, research has paved the way for so many people to connect and uplift others. My goal in life is to create avenues for women to succeed, to do this research is a vital part of finding solutions to help women in homelessness, domestic violence, and poverty. Many women within these situations are experiencing so many forms of medical issues, without the right resources to research their condition and relieve their pains the way that I was able to. Providing resources to women whether it is through money, materials or information is something I will always strive to do in life and in any career path I choose.