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Marleigh Brown

1x

Finalist

General information

Location
Bossier City, LA
Age
18
Gender
Female
US Citizenship
US Citizen
Ethnicity
Black/African
Religion
Christian
Church
Nondenominational

Hobbies & Interests

  • Roller Skating
  • Movies And Film
  • Screenwriting
  • Drawing And Illustration

Reading

  • Christianity

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

Hi! I’m an outgoing, people-centered person who genuinely loves connecting with others and building meaningful relationships. I enjoy creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported, and that passion is what drives everything I do. Throughout high school, I’ve taken on leadership roles like Co-President of Z Club and Vice President of GSA, and I’ve been actively involved in my school’s Theatre Performance Team as both a stage manager and actor. While those experiences have shaped me, what matters most to me is the impact behind them—serving my community and showing up for others. I’ve completed over 600 hours of community service, and I’ve been honored to serve as Louisiana Girls State Governor and to be named Captain Shreve’s Homecoming Queen. This fall, I’ll be attending Spelman College, where I plan to double major in Documentary Filmmaking and Psychology. I’m passionate about storytelling and understanding people, and I hope to become a film producer and director. In the future, I also want to start a nonprofit organization focused on supporting youth mental health and helping young people feel less alone. Honors: Tulane Book Award(2025) Caddo Parish Student Leader of the Month(2025) It Pays to be Kind Nominee, Caddo Parish (2025) Distinguished Scholar of Captain Shreve (2023-2024) Homecoming Queen of Captain Shreve High School (2025) Presidential Volunteer Service Award- Bronze, Houston Food Bank (2024) Gator Ambassador of Captain Shreve High School (2025- 2026)

Education

Captain Shreve High School

High School

2022 – 2026

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Psychology, General
Desired degree modality:
In-Person
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Earned 30+ veterinary shadowing hours across teaching hospitals and diagnostic labs Gained hands-on exposure to veterinary medicine, admissions processes, and career pathways Awarded program superlative: "Social Butterfly"

    Veterinary · University of Georgia's VetCAMP

    Jan 2025 – Jan 2025

  • Cashier

    Apparel & Fashion · Cavender's

    Jan 2025 – Jan 2026

  • Cashier

    Food Production · Captain D's

    Jan 2023 – Jan 2023

  • Cashier & Shift Lead

    Food & Beverages · Marble Slab Creamery/ Great American Cookie

    Jan 2024 – Jan 2026

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Writing and Editing
Dream career goals:
Psychologist and future director/producer of film & television
Work experience:
3 years
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Volunteering
  • Entrepreneurship
Let Your Light Shine Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time.
Forever90 Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time.
Kay Sykes Arts Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time. All glory to God.
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time.
Richard Neumann Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time.
Alexis Mackenzie Memorial Scholarship for the Arts
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time. All glory to God.
Valerie Rabb Academic Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time. All glory to God.
Ava Wood Stupendous Love Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to successfully pursue higher education and to truly understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time.
Scorenavigator Financial Literacy Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of young black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was enlightened in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that flame because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. So, I knew what ever I decided to do needed to be linked to that new found knowledge. Spelman College has always been a dream of mine because everything about the sisterhood on campus, the resources and connections and overall experience seemed magical to live through. But when I found out Spelman’s motto was, “ A Choice to Change the World,” I knew I found my purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to truly capture and understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Being able to capture those moments and share them with others will create a reach I believe no other place but Spelman can achieve. Switching to this dream that requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. Attending Spelman will not only be a flex but it will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time. All Glory to God.
Abigail O. Adewunmi Memorial Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. I thought I was prepared, but when I walked in, I was faced with a completely different reality. It was green, it smelled… concerning, and the liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took. The higher it rose, the further I stepped back. And listen—I thought I was strong, but I draw the line at my nose hairs being personally victimized. That day, the cow survived, but my dream of becoming a veterinarian? Gone. Flatlined. But that moment didn’t leave me empty; it redirected me. I’ve always been drawn to helping people, just not necessarily through cow stomachs. Over time, I realized my voice, my creativity, and my ability to connect with others could make just as much of an impact in a different space. That’s what led me to film and storytelling. Through screenwriting and production, I’ve been able to explore real, complicated human experiences and give them a voice. My short film This is the Last Chance and my screenplay “22” both dive into difficult relationships and emotional struggles, because I want people to feel seen, not just entertained. Film became more than a hobby; it became a way to serve, to communicate, and to start conversations that matter. That same desire to impact people shows up in my leadership and service. As Co-President of Z Club, I helped lead an organization dedicated to supporting women and underprivileged children. Coordinating over 600 service hours wasn’t just about keeping track of numbers; it was about creating real change. Whether organizing large school events or raising money for families facing medical hardships, I learned how to turn compassion into action. Outside of school, my time with the Houston Food Bank strengthened that commitment. With over 130 service hours, I helped distribute food, organize supplies, and lead volunteer teams. There’s something grounding about knowing the work you’re doing directly supports someone’s basic needs. At the Humane Society, I cared for animals daily, which confirmed that I still love animals just from a respectful distance where no one’s insides are involved. My leadership experiences, from being elected Girls State Governor to working in theatre and student organizations, have all reinforced the same lesson: people matter. Whether I’m stage managing a production, producing school broadcasts, or helping create a safe space in the Gender & Sexuality Alliance, I’ve learned how to listen, lead, and uplift others. Through it all, I give credit where it’s due: God. Every opportunity, every challenge, even that unforgettable day with the cow, has shaped me into someone who is resilient, adaptable, and purpose-driven. I may not have become a veterinarian, and honestly, I think the cows would agree that’s for the best. But I found something that fits me even better. Through film, leadership, and service, I’ve discovered a purpose rooted in storytelling and connection. And thankfully, a path that doesn’t involve my nose hairs fighting for survival. All glory to God.
Eddie L. Smith Sr. Memorial Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to truly capture and understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time. All glory to God.
WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarship
Rectal sleeve? Check. Mentally I was prepared, but when I went in I was faced with a different reality. It was green, filled with lots of wet grass and smelled a bit like trapped gas. The liquids inside the cow rose with each breath she took and the higher they rose, the more I backed out. Even though the cow was breathing, the dream to be a veterinarian in me that day died, along with my nose hairs. In a way, it was me taking a hand out, literally, of a life that was never meant to serve me. I soon realized I was never meant to live comfortably. Inside those four walls of the cow was guaranteed comfort and financial stability. Beyond those comfortable walls was a distant dream of mine: film. While in middle school and early high school, I fell in love with films such as Moonlight and Waves. Those films portrayed stories of black youth in an unapologetic manner. I found the paths of self discovery and coming of age that those characters went through relatable and inspiring. A fire was ignited in me during that period and their stories stuck with me in a way I will never forget. I knew from there on out I wanted to share stories that made a similarly powerful impact on young adults such as me. Unfortunately, as I got older and realized the reality of the cost of living, I dumped water all over that spark because I thought it was unrealistic. One day while thrifting at Goodwill, my dad picked up a sign that said, “Someday I will change the world.” I never understood it at first but this past summer, at Louisiana Girls State, God exposed to me my gift of connecting with people and worked through me in a way of sharing others stories. At this time, feeling lost and not knowing what to do I thought back to my distant dream of film and bridged the gap between us. After experimenting for a while with the world of film, attending different seminars, workshops and classes, I felt enlightened and fulfilled. I knew I found my true purpose. So after this cow incident, I ripped off that sleeve, washed my hands around ten times and decided to change my major to focus on film production. This change in career will allow me to truly capture and understand the experiences of young black adults and what causes them to evolve the way they do. Switching to this dream requires me to let go of the fear of failure and that is honestly terrifying. But I know God is breathing a new dream in me and it’s time for me to fulfill that. This change will be an opportunity for me to test the waters of the future that God has pre-destined for me since the beginning. And not only that but it will give me the opportunity to change the world, one story at a time.
Marleigh Brown Student Profile | Bold.org