In life, we face situations that test our courage, strength, and ability to endure; such moments define who we are and where we come from. I was born into a financially humble home, but we were rich in love and support; however, this richness didn't halt adversity; hardships came in droves. As an individual, my life has been characterized by an intricate chain of challenges that have demanded resilience. This is a story of personal growth, empowerment, and unyielding tenacity, it is my story, showing how my resilience has inspired someone else. Scientific literature defines resilience as the process of “bouncing back” from adversity, trauma, tragedy or significant stress; in other words, maintaining your mental health and well-being during difficult times. This aptly defined my state; I was struck with adversity early and it was resilience that saw me through. When one is caught in the eye of a storm, it's difficult to see anything besides the turmoil. I reminded myself of our rich family love, turned to my community for support, and our church for spiritual backbone. Over time, my life became a haven again, filled with love and warmth, all thanks to resilience. It was through sheer perseverance that I kept handling both home affairs and schooling. I worked hard, with nights turned into days, punctuated by tears and exhaustion. Every shredded part of me, every broken iota of my spirit, was a testament of resilience. In high school, I found a friend who was facing similar hardships. I sensed in her the same quiet desperation, the cry for help masked by a forceful smile. I shared my story with her and she was moved to tears, but it was this story, my story that inspired her to embrace resilience, much like I had done. Post our conversation, my friend underwent an impressive transformation. She began prioritizing her life, seeking help from the support systems available to her, and focusing on her strengths. Just like the willow bending against a blustery wind, she embraced resilience, and life began to change for her. Her downward-spiraling grades improved, her attitude turned positive, and she eventually managed a scholarship to a well-renowned university. Resilience is a journey, not a destination. My journey of resilience, coupled with the zeal to overcome hurdles, has inspired my friend to find hope amidst adversity. My demonstration of resilience served as a beacon for her, reminding her that adversity doesn't define us, but how we react to it does.

Entering college, I knew I had a life-altering opportunity at hand, a chance to shape the landscape of my future. However, this journey is not without its challenges, and in my respect, the most significant of them is indeed financial constraints. Undeterred by this significant roadblock, I am optimistic that the support from this scholarship will bridge the gap and help me to achieve my academic and personal goals in college. Winning a scholarship is more than just about receiving financial support. It paves the way for an individual's journey to realize their dreams, and for me, this scholarship would mean the access to quality education I need to obtain my Bachelors degree in Business Management. The field of business management has always intrigued me with its dynamic nature and the opportunity it offers to directly impact society. I have chosen this field because it provides the necessary training for managing resources, decision-making, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial skills that can convert ideas into success stories. My dream is to own a successful real estate company where I can leverage these skills to maximum advantage. The aspirations I harbor don't stop with me opening a real estate company. My vision expands further to transforming lower socioeconomic communities by promoting home ownership. Homeownership is not just about owning a house; it is a powerful tool for economic stability and independence. It allows families to build wealth, stabilize income, and has positive social outcomes like improved health, education, and crime rates. But unfortunately, the communities with low socioeconomic status have lower rates of homeownership due to lack of information, resources, and guidance. My main aim is to bridge this gap and make homeownership a reality for these communities. The knowledge I gain throughout my Business Management course would aid me in implementing effective business strategies, thereby creating a successful real estate company that caters to the need of these demographics. However, the journey to realize these aspirations comes with financial challenges, which is where the scholarship plays a crucial role. With this scholarship, my financial burden can be significantly reduced, allowing me to focus on my education and the important lessons I need to learn. This scholarship would act as a stepping stone into my dream career, allowing me to happily combine my passion for business with a heartfelt social cause. Hence, if I am selected for the scholarship, the funds will not just sponsor my education; they will be a crucial investment in dreams, community development, and the stepping stone to my goals.

I am a 17-year-old desiring to accomplish my dreams and mark my existence in the world. With eyes filled with determination and a heart filled with relentless enthusiasm, an entrepreneurial endeavor is the future I visualize for myself. Growing up was not particularly smooth sailing for me. Fatherly affection, guidance, and influence were far from my reality. I found myself struggling not only with personal issues but also with establishing firm relationships with males. My empathetic mother, recognizing the imminent psychological ramifications, made the wise decision to introduce therapy into my life. Therapy served as a lifeboat, navigating me through the tumultuous seas of my emotions. I delved deeper into my psyche, gaining a profound understanding of myself and unraveling the hidden implications of my father's void. The therapy suggested deeper implications to the issues I had been facing, the ability to build healthy relationships was a significant one. I had an epiphany that forgiving my father and attempting to amend our lost relationship could be a worthy pursuit. It was an arduous yet fulfilling journey, but I found the courage within myself to take this path, and I did. Meanwhile, I harbored entrepreneurial dreams, feverishly envisioning myself at the helm of a real estate firm. I was inclined towards business, as I desired to amass knowledge and expertise in this field to build a successful future. My passion for real estate was ignited by the simple idea of land ownership. I deeply valued the power and sense of self-sufficiency that came with owning a piece of the Earth. This is not merely a business venture for me but a dream; a dream to contribute to society. I aspire to return to underserved communities, educating them about homeownership, and uplifting them towards a better future. My dream is loaded with the primary goal of helping the less privileged, a vision closely intertwined with my personal development journey. Understanding both the joys and challenges of owning property, I wish to extend these opportunities, particularly to those who have been historically marginalized. My narrative of becoming an aspiring business magnate, embedded with the courage to face my past and dreams to uplift the future, is inspiring and heartening. A valuable lesson can be gleaned from my journey; one's present circumstances do not wholly dictate one's future, sheer determination and dreams do. As I prepare myself for higher education in business, my story stands as a beacon of inspiration, an example of how one can undeniably make a significant impact by turning dreams into reality. As I learned, we all need to remember that dreams are not just visions that occur during slumber; they are powerful aspirations that, when pursued earnestly, can shape one's life and, in turn, sculpt the world.

Stranger Things is not just a television series; it's an immersive experience, a masterwork painted on a vivid canvas of episodic storytelling. This is the series I have chosen to celebrate, dissect, and herald as one of the most captivating visual creations in contemporary TV entertainment. Set in the evocative era of the 1980s, Stranger Things captivates us right from the opening scene. The aesthetic appeal of the show is indisputable. This aesthetic appeal is supplemented by a strikingly authentic portrayal of the era's pop culture, producing a streaming visual feast that is aesthetically pleasing and incredibly immersive. However, Stranger Things is much more than just its visual appeal. The series stands out due to its genre-bending storytelling. Combining elements of sci-fi, drama, mystery, adventure, horror, and it effectively manages to encapsulate a rich experience. Stranger Things also impresses amid the innovative narrative techniques widely seen in modern television. Rather than simply telling a story, it recreates a time and a place, taking the audience along on a journey filled with supernatural oddities. This unique narrative approach blends beautifully with the mysterious air that permeates every episode, making the experience even more enticing. Furthermore, Stranger Things excels at character development, meticulously crafting its characters and ensuring they resonate with the audience. Each character's distinct personality traits and growth mirror the ups and downs of human life, thus inviting the viewer to establish an intimate connection. The success of Stranger Things also rests on its uncanny ability to evoke a spectrum of emotions. Nostalgia, laughter, suspense, horror, and heartbreak, the series has it all. With a compelling narrative interwoven with a gamut of emotions, it’s easy to see why Stranger Things can confidently claim its status in the viewers’ hearts. In conclusion, Stranger Things transcends the boundaries of a traditional sci-fi series, skillfully interweaving a wide array of genres to craft a cinematic masterpiece. Its abundance of aesthetics, intricate plot, well-developed characters, and emotional depth all combine to coerce, pleasantly, the viewer to indulge in binge-watching. Much like a symphony it crescendos, ultimately ushering the viewer into a state of nirvana, a blissful oblivion where one can truly get lost in the world of Stranger Things. To anybody undecided on whether or not to delve into this series, do yourself a favor: tune in, let go, and allow yourself to be swept away by the unique cultural phenomenon that is Stranger Things. Your inner sci-fi enthusiast will thank you.

Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman, more commonly known as Zendaya, is an irrefutable titan in the entertainment industry. Renowned for her seamlessness in switching between singing, dancing, and acting, this trailblazer also dawns another hat that remains unflinchingly perched – that of an activist. Her prowess in acting and advocacy is an exceptional feat that I admire immensely, setting her apart as one of my favorite entertainers. Firstly, Zendaya's acting journey is nothing short of phenomenal. She asserted her footprint in the acting sand with a defining role in Disney's "Shake It Up" which was my introduction to this shining star and it quickly became one of my favorite shows. Her acting prowess has consistently left profound impressions on both audiences and critics, endearing her versatility and depth in roles that many would find challenging. Zendaya's dazzling range in acting was highly apparent in her portrayal of a complex teenager in HBO's "Euphoria". She transitioned from her previous family-friendly roles with impeccable finesse, her portrayal of Rue Bennett - a girl struggling with addiction - earning her subsequent accolades. A prime example of this was her victory at the Emmy Awards, making her the youngest-ever winner of the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category at just 23. However, she is not just an impressive acting figure. Zendaya imbues activism fibers into her intricate tapestry of talents, asserting herself as a champion for causes that are close to her heart. As a biracial woman in Hollywood, the actress vocalizes matters on racial injustice, women's rights, and body positivity. Zendaya addresses racial issues both on and off-screen, ensuring her platform is utilized to highlight these persistent societal challenges. A significant moment in her activism journey was when she responded to a racially insensitive remark made about her appearance at the 2015 Oscars. Her articulate response to the criticism raised global consciousness of the persistent prejudices facing Black women's hair. She reminds us that even something as menial as a hairdo can be subject to discrimination, resulting in an open dialogue about accepting individual cultures and traditions without prejudice. In conclusion, Zendaya has solidified her status as one of the most dynamic artists in the entertainment industry. She has harnessed her various talents, primarily her exceptional acting ability, to capture the hearts of millions globally. Moreover, her dedication to activism has had profound effects on society, influencing people to rethink their perspectives and question existing norms. Her staunch advocacy for racial justice, women's rights, and body positivity is what makes Zendaya more than just an entertainer, she is an advocate, a role model, and a beacon of change.

Living a life that promotes sustainability has always been a goal of mine, with every action being a testament to my commitment to a healthier environment. These conscious decisions are vital in the reduction of my carbon footprint, contributing actively to the fight against climate change. Every morning, I wake up to the morning sunlight piercing through my blinds, a reminder of my first deliberate choice, which is utilizing natural light. The switch to natural light during the daytime helps to reduce energy consumption. Another choice is my decision to utilize public transportation, carpool or walk whenever possible. This not only helps to reduce carbon emissions from the personal use of cars, but it often also becomes a moment to appreciate the world around me. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that transportation accounts for 29% of greenhouse gas emissions, a significant amount that proves how crucial it is to minimize personal vehicle usage. Even my diet plays a role in promoting sustainability. By reducing the consumption of meat and switching to a plant-based diet, I have been able to contribute less to greenhouse gas emissions. Dining at local eateries that utilize locally sourced products helps support local farmers and reduce carbon emissions from food transportation. In my home, we choose to use energy-efficient appliances and make a concerted effort to reduce, reuse, and recycle different items which also helps in reducing my carbon footprint. Efficient energy use not only reduces reliance on non-renewable sources of energy, but it also reduces carbon emissions and slows down global warming. Living sustainably requires a conscious effort in every action made and decisions taken. These choices are not sacrifices, rather they are investments in the future of our planet. These intentional choices are a part of the bigger picture, reducing our carbon footprint. It plays a pivotal role in mitigating the influence of human activities on global warming. When we reduce our carbon footprint, we are directly lowering the accelerated rate of climate change. The importance of reducing our carbon footprint is undisputed. Not only does it prevent excessive global warming, but it also fosters sustainable development, allowing future generations to experience a healthier, safer environment. By embracing a sustainable lifestyle, adopting green energy, and minimizing waste, we contribute not just to our well-being but to the well-being of the planet. To capture it all, I believe that intentional choices, which lead to sustainable living, significantly help in reducing carbon footprint and making our planet a better place. Therefore, let's all prioritize sustainability, not only in our words but also in our actions.

Ode to Millennials-Gen Z provides an insightful lens into the uniqueness and our contribution towards shaping today's world. Generation Z is fostered in a world where technology is no longer a novelty, but a necessity. A distinguishing attribute of Generation Z is their innate digital fluency. Born in an age of extensive technological innovation, they are arguably the first generation to fully grow up with the Internet, smartphones and social media. Manifesting in their daily routines, this digital prowess empowers them for an increasingly tech-centric job market and plays a significant role in shaping society's digital transformation. The ‘Ode to Millennials-Gen Z’ offers an opportunity to appreciate the exceptional aptitude of this generation. The united front in seeking social equality and their responsible and ethical approach to global issues like climate change testify to their collective consciousness and responsibility. Racial equality, gun control, and gender and sexual diversity are just a few more of the causes they champion that will engrave their mark on society. Yet, they also remind us that each generation experiences distinctive struggles conditioned by their particular historical and sociocultural contexts. It is essential to understand their perspectives, empathize with their concerns, and positively collaborate to build a future that benefits all. The ‘Ode’ concludes by affirming that despite the challenges, Generation Z inherits a world of boundless potential. Whether it's in innovating new technologies, leading advocacy movements, or bringing forth transformational changes in society, this ode illuminates their multifaceted strengths and it calls for the continued support of each generation to foster this positive momentum. Thus, the ‘Ode to Millennials-Gen Z’ encapsulates the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of this generation. It serves as a reminder of their impressive contributions to our society, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding and respect among generations. Crucially, this narrative is a testament to their unremitting audacity to dream and to reshape the world in their image, marking their indelible influence in the narrative of our times.

This essay aims to shed light on my experiences in understanding the significance of mental health and the strategies I adopted to sustain mental wellness throughout my high school journey. Entering high school, I had an understanding of a phrase that is increasingly prevalent in today's society: “mental health.” Mental Health is a combination of our physical, emotional and mental well-being. It is a vast umbrella term that covers our thoughts, feelings, and overall outlook on life. Nevertheless, I was quite naive about the extent of its importance, especially for a high school student like me. The pressure to excel academically, keep up with extracurricular activities, maintain social relationships and ensure that I have a plan post-high school; while still trying to enjoy my young life was a heavy weight on my shoulders at times. Times of intense stress and pressure drastically affected my mental health, often creating a snowball effect and leading me down a path of self-doubt and anxiety. However, I began to realize that my mental health was a critical determinant of how I reacted to these pressures. As I began to understand this interconnectedness, I learned why monitoring my mental health was so crucial. Reading about kids and teenagers committing suicide gave me just the push I needed to work on my mental health. I promised myself that I would put in the work necessary to be physically, emotionally and mentally healthy. My perspective on mental health evolved as I recognized the multitude of ways it touched every aspect of my life. As I reflect I see how I interacted with my family and friends and how I problem-solved various situations. The strength and determination I showed in meeting educational tasks, and how I handled life's inevitable setbacks were all clear indications of my strong mental health. I endured some situations that could have caused me to break, but I tackled each one with tenacity and strength. Armed with this understanding, I knew I needed to foster a healthy mental environment proactively. One of my most successful strategies was creating a support system. My parents are my strongest supporters; however, I also have friends, community leaders, family members and my church family, who have all proven to be trustworthy and compassionate individuals who have been instrumental in maintaining my mental health. Maintaining balance was my second strategy. The rigorous demands of high school academia are intense, but it was imperative to retain balance by engaging in recreational activities that I enjoyed. By doing so, I could de-stress, reenergize, and tackle my responsibilities with renewed vigor. My third strategy was mindfulness. From spending time in the gym to maintaining my self-care routine were invaluable tools. Being present and aware of my emotions and mental state empowered me to deal with stress more effectively. In conclusion, as a high school student, the importance of my mental health became increasingly clear with each challenging experience. A balanced mental state is a crucial key in navigating life's vicissitudes. My journey towards mental wellness continues, aided by my mindfulness, proactive strategies, and robust support network.

I am a 17-year-old student, an employed young adult at Walmart, and a dedicated civic participant. My journey began at Walmart, where I initially only planned to work to have my own money. However, it turned out to be more than just a job. I began greeting customers and monitoring the self-checkout area. Over time, I moved into different roles; from sales associate to store standards associate, and each position taught me invaluable skills for my journey in civic engagement. Simultaneously, I joined the Chesapeake Career Center as a student ambassador. I became part of a group of select students who represent the center's values, goals, and practices to the public, and engage in spreading appreciation for the profound impact of education on personal and community betterment. It is at the intersection of my professional endeavor and academic pursuit that I understood the power of civic engagement. I realized that these activities developed my skills, widened my range of understanding about the community, and reinforced my capacity to contribute positively. I have served on the youth ministry team since my Sunday school days at my church. Being part of the team, I developed compassion for those in need and a deep sense of mission to contribute to the well-being of my community. It reinforced my commitment to civic engagement. I recognized that through faith-based initiatives, communities could gain a sense of meaning, purpose, and connection. Civic engagement means being an active participant in the community, addressing social, political, and environmental issues, and trying to make a difference. It is about raising your voice and standing up for what is right, identifying a problem, and taking action for a better future. Be it through volunteering, lobbying, voting, or public speaking, every action matters. It is about understanding that I, as a single individual, can contribute to the larger picture, and then taking steps to voice my ideas and opinions. It is about seeking change, fighting for justice, and working tirelessly to make this world a better place for everyone. Through my civic engagement, whether as a Walmart employee, a student ambassador, or a member of the youth ministry team at my church, I have gained confidence and learned how to make my voice heard effectively. Looking forward, I am determined to continue these efforts. My dreams are massive, and my will is strong. I am incredibly grateful for each opportunity that has paved my journey so far, and I am thrilled to see how my future unfolds as I work to make a difference through civic engagement.

The inquisitive human spirit yearns to untangle the puzzling secrets enveloping our universe. Everything that surrounds us, from the air we breathe to the ground beneath our feet, our very existence hinges upon the nature of the universe. Exploring the universe promotes unity and increases our perspective about our shared home - Earth. Furthermore, understanding the universe can pave the way for commercial innovations and technological advancements. Investigating and understanding the nature of our universe is a fundamental aspiration that not only enriches our knowledge as a species but also shapes our perspective about our existence and interconnection with the cosmos. It is a journey inquiring about the mysteries that envelop the physical universe and the laws governing it, providing a reliable outlook on both the minuscule and the colossal parts of the world beyond human perception. Thus, the criticality of understanding our universe's nature lies heavily on the exponential growth of human consciousness and cognition. The question arises, then, how do we further our understanding of the universe? Several promising concepts and strategies can be brought to bear in this regard. Chief among them is the conceptual framework of interdisciplinary learning, uniting different scientific domains to fully comprehend the universe. The sheer volume of data harvested from telescopic observations can be systematically analyzed using tools such as artificial intelligence. This can help uncover patterns and phenomena that would otherwise remain hidden. Finally, we must not undermine the potential of human curiosity and exploration. Despite technological advancements, immense value lies in first-hand exploration. Programs such as the Mars Rover missions and future lunar colonization initiatives would entail giant strides in our understanding of the cosmos. In conclusion, by cherishing the interconnectedness of knowledge, fostering a sense of global unity, and facilitating technological advancements, the task of understanding our universe is of paramount importance. Our yearning curiosity, powered by the concepts of interdisciplinary learning, data analysis, and exploration initiatives, will aid us in further unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. Discernment of our universe's nature is pivotal for the growth and sustainability of human knowledge, shaping our perspective about existence and leading to novel discoveries. The application of the scientific method, concepts of cosmology, quantum mechanics, and Einstein's theory of relativity, acts as a pathway towards this understanding, pushing the frontier of human cognition to unprecedented limits. Our journey towards comprehension of the cosmos is an everlasting odyssey, a testament to our ceaseless endeavor for knowledge and truth. Amidst the myriad mysteries that our universe cradles, humanity embarks on this formidable quest of understanding with a spirit untamed by the vast cosmic expanse.

Once upon a time in the bustling city of Chesapeake, I, Melanie, a seventeen-year-old determined female student, embarked on an educational journey. As I stand in the majestic halls of Western Branch High School, my heartbeat booms with sheer anticipation punctuated by a surge of nervous excitement. Dressed in the uniform of ambition, my eyes are poised towards a future rich with potential, fueled by a dream. A dream of standing strong amidst towering edifices, shaking hands with destiny as the robust foundation of my very own real estate company reflects faithfully in my eyes. My aspirations of becoming a successful entrepreneur are not just dreams, but well-calculated goals backed by hard work, determination, and a meticulously designed plan. The foundation is set, the guidelines are charted, and all that is left is to take the plunge and keep swimming, even when the currents are against me. A four-year college education is the path I have picked to reach my destination. However, this road is not without its fair share of obstacles. Finances stand as a challenging hurdle, casting imposing shadows across the gleaming stretches of my aspiration. This is where a scholarship steps in, as a beacon of hope, a guiding light. A scholarship will not only help me navigate through the dark maze of financial constraints but also be a testament to my perseverance. My time at Western Branch High School has been much more than your typical high school experience. We, at our esteemed school, believe in fostering an environment that encourages not just academic pursuits but also character development and leadership abilities. As part of this unique fabric, I was appointed as a student ambassador for Chesapeake Career Center, a role that has shaped my persona and understanding of responsibility. The Student Ambassador Program resonates within the vibrant archways of our school as a symbol of collective unity. As a student ambassador, I had the honorable task of representing our career center and introducing new students to our colorful blend of career opportunities. My voice became the echo of our mission and my actions, an embodiment of the educational excellence we uphold. As I continue on this journey, I do so with hope in my heart, dreams in my eyes and the steadfast belief that my goal is achievable. Applying for this scholarship is a small step towards the larger leap, the leap that takes me toward my dreams. If provided with the right opportunities and adequate financial aid, I am confident that my story will indeed have a happy ending, contributing to the world of real estate with my innovative ideas and unwavering determination.

As a teen African American female, I understand the pressures to be great and excel; however, there are days when I do not feel like being great but rather just being. My generation seeks validation and approval from social media and our friends, and since we give a lot of attention to our phones and social media, my contribution to affordable and accessible mental health care would be platforms on all social media sites dedicated to mental health. These sites would be free, confidential and funded by the government. The sites would offer daily affirmations based on the issues the individuals are facing and the platform would provide 24-hour access. If the individual requires face-to-face services or any type of medication they would receive huge discounted prices for medication and low-fee face- to- face therapy.

The dream version of myself is more confident, more educated, and financially stable and the owner of a real estate company that succeeds in increasing homeownership for African Americans.

I am a 17-year-old African-American student residing in Virginia with my mother and my 7-year-old Yorkie. I have always known that I would attend college, but I did not start thinking about colleges until my junior year of high school. My mother graduated from an HBCU and of course, she wants me to follow in her footsteps; however, not all of my college choices include HBCUs. The career field I am interested in pursuing is General Business Administration. I chose business as my major because I want to be proficient in planning, organizing and leadership. I am aware of the homeownership gap between Black and White Americans, as well as the disparity between blacks and other nationalities when it comes to business ownership. I believe that knowledge is power and it is my mission to ensure that those gaps no longer exist. I plan to use the knowledge that I acquire through my studies as a business major to facilitate free small business lessons for minorities and anyone interested in becoming a business owner. I plan to develop a toolbox of financial literary information to distribute to individuals as a reference. I hope to be able to go to local community centers to deliver my information. I want to be able to give people hope that they can achieve their dreams whatever they may be. I know there are several small business loans and grants available to help fund certain business ventures; however, I know many people are unaware of the resources offered and I want to be the link that connects the people to the resources. I want to be in a position that will allow me to continuously pour back into lower socioeconomic areas. I have encountered several great teachers who have made an impact on my life; however, the person who has made the greatest impact on my life is my mom. My mom is my real-life superhero. My mom has been providing me with love, affection, guidance and knowledge. My mom gives me great advice but she also allows me to make mistakes and offers grace when I do. My mom encourages me to try and never give up. My mom is the perfect example of what strength, determination and motivation look like. My mom encourages me daily and reassures me that I can do and be anything in this world as long as I work hard and stay determined.

If I could suggest one book for everyone in the world to read, it would be the Bible. The Bible contains so much information and knowledge. The Bible speaks about love and how we should treat others. I see so much hatred in the world and I cannot help but think if everyone was aware of how love overcomes hate there would be less turmoil in the world. Every day I watch the news someone in my area is murdered. As a student, I get anxious when I step onto school property, as my chances of being involved in a school shooting are greater than my chances of being selected for this scholarship. I was introduced to the Bible at a young age. I can remember Sunday school lessons teaching me about sharing and being respectful. At 17 years old, I still value all the lessons and teachings I learned from reading the Bible and attending church. The Bible tells us to “love our neighbor as ourself,” and I believe if we all lived by that message there would be less hatred in the world. I know that there are many different religions and faiths and everyone will not be on the same page when it comes to the Bible that I read, but I believe if everyone reads something inspirational and faith-based we would have more unity and cohesion. I would recommend that everyone read the Bible because it provides insight into understanding various situations. The Bible serves as a blueprint for how to treat others and how we should live our lives according to Christ. I hope that if everyone in the world were to read the Bible, they would obtain understanding and clarity on how we should treat others.

On September 5, 2023 I returned to high school as a senior. I began to feel so many emotions from fear to excitement. I thought to myself, you are graduating in June 2024. I have always known I would attend college, preferably an HBCU as my mother graduated from an HBCU, which became my original reason for attending an HBCU; however, after experiencing various HBCU homecomings and feeling the love and camaraderie I knew I would feel at home attending an HBCU. Pursuing higher education will not only provide me with additional educational instruction, but it will also offer real-life experiences. Being away from home will give me more responsibility, and make me self-sufficient and independent. While I know my mother will always have my back and help me out in any way she can, I believe that the college experience is very necessary for my future well-being. I believe a higher education in addition to my work history would give me a head start in the workforce. My dreams and ambitions include obtaining my BS in Business Management and then completing an MBA program. I believe that higher education is extra important to me as an African American considering that my ancestors were unable to be educated. Knowing that numerous people fought and lost their lives for freedom and equality I believe that I would be doing myself a disservice by not taking advantage of furthering my education. This scholarship will fulfill my goals by providing some financial assistance. I know that college can be very expensive especially since I plan on staying on campus, thus the reason I have taken the opportunity to apply for scholarships to assist with the funding. My mother is a single parent and she takes very good care of me; however, I know that trying to pay for school will come as a financial burden to her so I have taken the initiative to apply for scholarships. My mother is still paying for student loans and she has been adamant about not wanting me to have student loans for school. As bad, as I want to attend a 4-year university I am also okay with the fact that I may have to go to a local community college to help offset the cost of school. If I were selected for this scholarship, it would be a great contribution to assist with my college tuition and fees.

I often hear my mother say, "You will never know what it's like to grow up in my generation." My mother often mentions how great my generation has things and how we will never have a true appreciation for simpler times. My mother was born in the 80s and when I consider the phrase "Once upon a time in Hollywood," I cannot help but think about the era in which my mom was a teenager. When I reflect on television in the 90s, I think of the emerging black actors and the positive roles they were portraying. I think of television shows like The Cosby Show, where the parents were successful and educated and upheld traditional values like respect and consideration for others. My mother told me about the television show A Different World and the impact it had on her wanting to go to an HBCU and live on campus. My mother told me watching that show gave her drive, motivation and encouragement. Fast forward to 2018, the season premiere of Grown-ish debuts and I instantly feel the nostalgia that my mother felt about A Different World. Getting a glimpse into college life via television also motivated me to want to go away to college and stay on campus instead of going to a local university. My mother and I began to look at the similarities and differences between A Different World and Grown-ish. Although Grown-ish aired 30 years after the debut of A Different World, both shows shared common themes, situations and interests. I believe that Hollywood plays a crucial role in the world in which we live. Hollywood tends to show us either a real feel-good storyline or tragedy; however, in reality, we can and will at some point experience both and not always with a fairytale ending. I enjoy watching television mainly reality TV; however thanks to my mother I am cognizant of the fact they are actors doing a job and being paid. I am aware that everything I watch is for entertainment purposes and not to be taken too seriously. Although Grown-ish has inspired me to want to go away to college, I realize that what I witnessed on TV will not necessarily be my college experience. I may not meet a group of friends and share a lifelong bond with them nor will I have the perfect roommate, but I do intend to focus, study hard, step outside my comfort zone join a club or sorority and make every minute of my college years count.