When I think about the phrase “Champions of a New Path,” I see myself reflected in it, because my journey has been about creating a path that didn’t already exist for me. I am someone who has worked tirelessly to build opportunities through persistence, lead with compassion, and inspire others through action. I have always believed that success is not determined by circumstance but by how we rise to meet challenges, and that belief has guided every decision I have made. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, in a family of five children. My parents always emphasized the value of hard work and character. We did not have much to spare, but what we did have was a deep sense of togetherness and resilience. From a young age, I learned that if you want something, you find a way to make it happen, not through shortcuts, but through dedication, sacrifice, and a belief in yourself. Watching my parents juggle responsibilities to provide for us taught me what perseverance really looks like. That foundation shaped the woman I am today: driven, grateful, and determined to make my mark. As one of five children, I have always known that education is both a privilege and a responsibility. My parents have done everything they can to help me pursue my dreams, but I have always felt the responsibility to help pay for my tuition and contribute to my own success. Each semester, I budget carefully, work during breaks, and apply for scholarships to help lighten the financial strain. It is not easy, but it has made me strong. Every payment I make toward my education feels like an investment in the future I am building, one that I am proud to say I am earning with my own two hands. My curiosity about how things work began long before college. As a child, I was fascinated by patterns, systems, and the way people interacted with their surroundings. I loved organizing things, understanding cause and effect, and figuring out what made processes smoother or communication more effective. At the same time, I had a natural inclination toward creativity. I loved to write, design, and express ideas in ways that connected with people. Those dual interests, logic and creativity, would one day lead me to my passion for Supply Chain Management and Digital Marketing. When I arrived at the University of Tennessee, I knew I wanted to study something that would challenge both my analytical and creative sides. That is how I found the perfect balance through a double major in Supply Chain Management and Digital Marketing with a collateral in Information Management. On the surface, these fields may seem different, but together they represent everything that defines me: efficiency, communication, innovation, and heart. I chose supply chain management because I am fascinated by the unseen systems that keep the world moving. The way a single purchase at a store sets off a chain of processes involving forecasting, production, transportation, and delivery is particularly intriguing to me. It is like an intricate puzzle that, when managed effectively, makes life easier for millions of people. I was drawn to marketing because it adds the human element: understanding what people need, how they feel, and what drives their decisions. To me, marketing is storytelling backed by strategy, while supply chain is a structure powered by precision. Together, they form the foundation of modern business, and I knew that mastering both would give me the tools to create meaningful change. My time at the University of Tennessee has been more than just about earning a degree; it has been about growing into a leader who understands that knowledge only matters if it is used to serve others. I have learned that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about listening, guiding, and uplifting others. That belief led me to one of my most meaningful roles, serving as the Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council. In that position, I had the privilege of mentoring and leading women through one of the most emotional and transformative experiences of their college careers: sorority recruitment. For many, it was a time filled with uncertainty and self-doubt. My job was not just to manage logistics but to be a source of steadiness and encouragement. I remember countless late nights spent talking with students who felt lost, unsure if they would find a place where they belonged. I would remind them that their worth was not defined by a single moment or organization, but by who they were and what they brought to the world. Those conversations reminded me that leadership begins with empathy. Being able to guide those women and watch them grow in confidence was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Through that role, I discovered that leadership, for me, is about grace, the ability to stay composed under pressure, to meet challenges with compassion, and to bring people together through understanding. That same grace has helped me navigate the demands of balancing two majors, multiple leadership roles, and work responsibilities, all while helping fund my education. It has taught me how to adapt without losing sight of what truly matters. My journey has not been easy, but I would not trade any part of it. The challenges have made me stronger, more grateful, and more grounded. Each obstacle has reminded me that perseverance is not about perfection but about persistence. When I think about where I started and how far I have come, I am proud not because I had it all figured out, but because I never stopped trying. As I look forward to my final year of college, I feel both excitement and a sense of responsibility. Excitement for what lies ahead, and commitment to finish strong. This scholarship would allow me to do that. It would alleviate a significant financial burden, enabling me to dedicate my full attention to completing my degree, preparing for my career, and giving back to the community that has supported me throughout. The Champions of a New Path Scholarship represents more than financial support to me; it represents belief. It represents the kind of encouragement that helps a student not only stay in school but thrive in it. With this scholarship, I could focus more on what truly drives me: learning, leading, and serving others through my work. My time at the University of Tennessee has been filled with moments that have challenged, inspired, and shaped me into the woman I am today. Every course, project, and leadership role has taught me something new about myself, about what it means to lead, and about what it takes to make an impact. I have worked hard not only to succeed academically but to grow into someone who uses her knowledge to create meaningful change. In my classes, I have developed a passion for understanding both the human and technical sides of business. Courses in supply chain management have opened my eyes to the complexity behind global operations, revealing how efficiency, ethics, and sustainability are deeply interconnected. I have learned that every decision, from sourcing to logistics, can have a significant impact on communities, workers, and the environment. At the same time, my digital marketing courses have allowed me to explore the psychology of communication, teaching me how to craft messages that connect with people and inspire them to take action. One of the most transformative classes I have taken is Marketing475e, Visual Marketing. This course challenged me to think beyond traditional marketing methods and explore the power of imagery, design, and emotion in storytelling. I learned to use tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Canva to create visuals that communicate values, purpose, and authenticity. Through projects in this class, I developed marketing campaigns that combined creativity with data-driven strategy, including a whole digital campaign for e.l.f. Cosmetics. I studied the brand’s audience, analyzed engagement metrics, and designed a social media strategy to strengthen its connection with consumers. That experience showed me how even subtle creative choices can transform how a message is received and how storytelling can build lasting loyalty between brands and their audiences. Beyond the classroom, I have sought out opportunities to apply my learning in real-world settings. My internship with Odyssey Atlanta was one of the most formative experiences of my college career. Odyssey is a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the educational gap for students in underserved communities. My task was to expand its social media presence and build strategies that would attract more donors and community partners. When I first started, the organization’s online engagement was low. I knew I had to find a way to make their mission stand out. I began experimenting with new content formats, testing visual strategies, and incorporating storytelling that highlighted the real impact of their work. Through persistence and creative problem-solving, I increased engagement by 20% and grew followers by 3% in just six weeks. While those numbers were meaningful, the most unforgettable part of my internship was the time I spent working directly with the children in the program. One day, I sat with a young boy who was struggling to read. We practiced together, slowly sounding out each word, and when he finally read a complete sentence on his own, his entire face lit up. He jumped up, hugged me, and said he wanted to read more. From that day on, he would find me every morning to tell me a new sentence he had read in class. That moment reminded me that my purpose in life is not just to build systems or campaigns but to create moments that inspire growth and confidence in others. It reminded me that authentic leadership begins with service and patience. In addition to Odyssey, my professional growth continued through my internship with UPS Digital, where I worked as a strategy intern. This opportunity pushed me outside my comfort zone and gave me a deeper understanding of how innovation and collaboration drive progress in the business world. I conducted market research across more than thirty competitors, supported projects that contributed to one hundred million dollars in innovation goals, and led the planning of an intern-wide hackathon. Through that experience, I learned how technology and creativity intersect in modern business operations. I saw firsthand how strong supply chain systems and digital transformation can work together to make organizations more efficient, sustainable, and impactful. Working at UPS Digital was particularly meaningful to me because I have long admired UPS for its global reach, innovative culture, and commitment to excellence. The experience deepened my desire to one day serve as Vice President of Supply Chain for UPS or a similar organization, such as The Home Depot. Both companies have shaped my understanding of what effective logistics, innovation, and community partnership can look like. My goal is to help lead a team that not only optimizes systems but does so with purpose, prioritizing sustainability, equity, and opportunity for all. In every experience I have had, whether in class, internships, or leadership, one lesson has stood out: success is never just about personal achievement. It is about what you give back to others. That belief has guided my volunteer work and community involvement throughout my college years. Serving with organizations such as PCAA, the Girl Scouts, and Odyssey Atlanta has reminded me of the power of service. Through PCAA, I have worked to support children in foster care and raise awareness about child advocacy programs. Volunteering with the Girl Scouts has enabled me to mentor young girls and help them develop confidence, leadership skills, and creativity. These experiences have reminded me that leadership begins with humility and that helping others discover their own potential is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. Balancing school, internships, leadership roles, and volunteer commitments has not always been easy. There have been nights when I stayed up late studying, early mornings filled with meetings, and weekends spent catching up on projects instead of relaxing. However, through it all, I have learned the importance of discipline, effective time management, and perseverance. Every challenge I have faced has made me stronger. I have learned that resilience is built one decision at a time, through small moments of choosing to keep going even when it would be easier to stop. Now, as I approach my senior year, I am filled with both pride and a sense of purpose. This scholarship would give me the chance to finish what I started without the constant worry of financial strain. It would allow me to focus entirely on my final projects, prepare for my career, and continue to give back to the community that has helped me become who I am. It would mean the difference between simply graduating and graduating with the freedom to pursue my dreams fully. I am proud of my journey so far, but I know it is only the beginning. The lessons I have learned in leadership, service, and perseverance have shaped not only my education but the person I am becoming. I have discovered that the most rewarding success is not about titles or accolades, but about impact, the difference you make in the lives of others. Service has always been the heartbeat of who I am. No matter what titles I hold or projects I complete, I have always believed that leadership is measured by how you treat people and what you give back to the community around you. Throughout my time at the University of Tennessee, I have worked to live out that belief by serving others with compassion, purpose, and gratitude. One of the most meaningful ways I have been able to serve has been through my involvement in the Panhellenic community and Kappa Delta. When I joined Greek life, I did not fully realize how much it would shape me as a leader and a person. My time in Kappa Delta provided me with a network of strong, intelligent, and kind women who inspired me every day to strive for higher goals and lead with empathy. Over time, I became someone that others looked to for guidance, and that realization motivated me to step into a larger leadership role within the Panhellenic Council. Serving as the Vice President of Recruitment Counselors has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. In this role, I was responsible for guiding a group of women who mentored potential new members through the sorority recruitment process. This process can be overwhelming for students, filled with excitement, but also marked by moments of self-doubt and vulnerability. I made it my mission to create an environment where every student felt seen, valued, and supported. I remember long conversations with women who felt uncertain about where they belonged. I listened, encouraged them, and helped them find the confidence to trust themselves. Watching them discover their strength and find their home within our community reminded me that leadership is not about power but about presence. It is about showing up for others in ways that help them see their own worth. Those same lessons have shaped how I approach service outside of campus. My volunteer work with PCAA, the Girl Scouts, and Odyssey Atlanta has given me a broader understanding of the impact that compassion and consistency can have. At PCAA, I have helped advocate for children in foster care and assisted with programs that provide resources and support to families in need. Working with the Girl Scouts has been equally meaningful. I have helped organize activities that teach young girls about leadership, teamwork, and self-confidence. Watching their excitement as they accomplish goals and learn new skills reminds me of the importance of empowerment and mentorship. At Odyssey Atlanta, in addition to my internship duties, I continued to volunteer with the students, assisting them with reading, writing, and creative projects. Each interaction reminded me that kindness is a chain reaction. When you take the time to pour into someone else, it often inspires them to do the same for others. Through these experiences, I have come to realize that service is not just about a single act of giving. It is a lifestyle, a mindset that influences every choice you make. Whether I am mentoring younger students, supporting a team at work, or volunteering in the community, I try to lead with empathy and patience. These values are what define me. They guide how I communicate, how I handle challenges, and how I build relationships. As a woman pursuing a career in supply chain management, I am also deeply passionate about empowering other women to step into spaces where they have historically been underrepresented. The supply chain has long been viewed as a male-dominated field, but I believe that is changing, and I want to be part of that shift. Throughout my studies, I have come to realize the importance of incorporating diverse voices into the conversation. Women bring creativity, collaboration, and compassion to an industry that relies on innovation, problem-solving, and teamwork. Representation matters, and I want to help open doors for others just as mentors have opened doors for me. My dream is to one day become the Vice President of Supply Chain at a major company such as UPS or The Home Depot. Both organizations have played a role in shaping my passion for logistics, innovation, and sustainability. Working at UPS Digital provided me with firsthand insight into the significant impact a strong supply chain can have on the world. At The Home Depot, I see a company that prioritizes both operational excellence and community involvement, two values that align perfectly with who I am. I want to lead in a way that not only drives business success but also uplifts people in the process. Beyond my professional goals, I have a more profound vision for the future. I aim to establish a foundation that enables young women to explore careers in supply chain management and equips them with the necessary tools and mentorship to achieve success. Too often, women overlook this field because they do not see themselves represented or are unsure of where to start. My goal is to change that. I want to build a program that introduces high school and college students to the field, offers workshops and internships, and connects them with women professionals who can serve as mentors. I want to create a network where women can share resources, encourage each other, and celebrate each other’s successes. This dream is personal for me because I know how powerful mentorship can be. Every time I have been supported by a professor, supervisor, or peer who believed in me, it has changed the way I see myself. It made me more confident in my abilities and more certain of my purpose. I want to give that same gift to others. I want to help women realize that they belong in boardrooms, warehouses, innovation centers, and leadership roles. I want to show them that they can shape the systems that shape the world. Creating this foundation will not happen overnight, but I know that every step I take now is building toward it. Each class I take, each leadership position I hold, and each person I mentor is helping me grow into the kind of leader who can make this dream a reality. I know it will take hard work, resilience, and continuous learning, but I am ready for that challenge. Everything I have done so far has prepared me for this next stage. My experiences have given me more than skills; they have given me perspective. They have taught me that authentic leadership is rooted in service, that the best innovations come from empathy, and that success is not meaningful unless it lifts others along with it. I want to embody those truths in everything I do moving forward. As I enter my senior year at the University of Tennessee, I find myself at a point of both deep reflection and anticipation. Growth, challenges, and numerous lessons in perseverance have marked the journey that brought me here. I have worked hard to reach this stage, balancing academics, leadership roles, internships, and volunteer work while also helping to pay for my education. I have always taken pride in earning my own way, but I have also learned that sometimes even the most determined individuals need support to reach the next step. This scholarship would not only help me complete my education but would give me the freedom to fully invest in my future without the heavy weight of financial worry. As one of five children, I have always understood the importance of sharing responsibilities and contributing to my family. My parents have sacrificed so much to give us opportunities, but I have never wanted to place that burden entirely on them. I have worked during school breaks, budgeted carefully, and applied for scholarships to help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Each semester, I find myself calculating how to balance everything, often making difficult decisions about what to prioritize. I am proud of how resourceful I have become, but the reality is that the financial strain can sometimes limit what I can do. This scholarship would make a tremendous difference in my life. It would allow me to focus entirely on my coursework and final projects rather than constantly worrying about finances. It would give me the ability to take on additional professional opportunities that could enhance my experience and strengthen my career path. Most importantly, it would allow me to finish strong, with the confidence and stability I need to transition into the next phase of my life. I have poured my heart into my education, and I want to graduate knowing that I gave it my all. Beyond its financial impact, this scholarship represents something even more significant to me: a belief. It serves as a reminder that some people and organizations recognize potential in students like me, who work hard, serve others, and strive to make a difference. Knowing that others believe in my vision would fuel my motivation even more. It would remind me that all the late nights, early mornings, and sacrifices have been worth it. As I look ahead to my career, I envision myself entering the supply chain industry with purpose and passion. I aim to continue developing systems that are not only efficient but also sustainable. I want to be part of the movement that redefines what leadership looks like in this field. I imagine myself one day sitting in a leadership position at UPS or The Home Depot, guiding teams, optimizing processes, and building partnerships that prioritize both people and performance. I want to use my voice to advocate for innovation and inclusion, creating workplaces where everyone has the chance to grow and contribute. But even beyond my career goals, my heart lies in creating a legacy that reaches beyond myself. I aim to establish a foundation for women in supply chain management, providing a platform where young women can gain exposure to the industry, receive mentorship, and develop the confidence to step into leadership roles. I aim to develop workshops, networking events, and scholarship programs that provide women with the tools and support they need to thrive. I want them to see supply chain not as a distant or intimidating field, but as a dynamic and empowering career path where they can make a real difference. This dream is personal because I have witnessed firsthand what representation can achieve. When women see other women leading, it plants a seed of possibility. It tells them that they belong in those spaces. I want to be that example, not because I want recognition, but because I want to help others see that they can break barriers, too. I want young girls to know that they can lead with intelligence and kindness, that they can balance compassion with confidence, and that their voices matter in every conversation. Every experience I have had, from my time as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors to my internships and volunteer work, has shaped me into someone who leads with both strategy and heart. I have learned that authentic leadership requires empathy, courage, and resilience. It requires the willingness to keep showing up, even when things are challenging, and to continually seek ways to uplift others along the way. Those lessons are what will continue to guide me as I move forward in my career and life. The Champions of a New Path Scholarship represents everything I believe in. It celebrates determination, integrity, and the courage to pursue something bigger than yourself. I view this scholarship not just as financial assistance, but as a partnership —a belief in the potential of young leaders to build something meaningful. With this support, I will be able to complete my degree, pursue my career goals, and begin building the foundation that I hope will one day empower women across the country to find their place in supply chain management. I imagine the moment I walk across the graduation stage, my family in the audience, my parents smiling with pride. It will not only represent years of hard work and sacrifice, but also the start of a lifelong commitment to making a difference. I will carry with me the lessons of perseverance, grace, and gratitude that have brought me this far, and I will continue to live by them as I build my career and my legacy. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than words can express. It would be an investment not only in my education, but in my future and the future of the women I hope to inspire. I am ready to continue leading and creating a new path that reflects strength, purpose, and compassion. This scholarship would allow me to take that next step and to continue turning my dreams into action.

My area of focus in school is digital marketing, where creativity meets data and storytelling meets strategy. I chose this path because I have always been fascinated by how messages move people, how one well-crafted story or visual can shift perspective, build loyalty, or create a movement. At the University of Tennessee, my coursework has enabled me to explore every aspect of this intersection, providing me with both the analytical tools and creative confidence to shape ideas into meaningful campaigns. In classes like Marketing four seventy-five, Visual Marketing, I have learned that strong marketing is more than just design; it is communication that connects, converts, and inspires. This course challenged me to think like both an artist and a strategist, blending classic design principles with modern tools like Adobe Photoshop, Canva, and AI platforms to create visuals that align with a brand’s mission and audience insights. Through hands-on projects, I have created mood boards, personal brand assets, and mock campaigns that have sharpened my understanding of how imagery, typography, and layout can convey a story before a single word is read. These projects helped me earn my Adobe Photoshop Certification, a skill that has become an essential part of my growing digital toolkit. One of my favorite projects was a whole campaign I built for e.l.f. Cosmetics, where I analyzed the brand’s audience data, developed key messages, and created a social media strategy designed to increase engagement and retention. I tracked metrics like click-through rates and viewer duration to measure the effectiveness of my creative choices. Seeing how minor adjustments in visuals or copy can dramatically affect performance reminded me of the power of strategic creativity and how much I love combining data with imagination to inspire action. Outside of class, my internship with Odyssey Atlanta enabled me to apply those skills in real-world practice. Odyssey is a nonprofit dedicated to closing the educational gap for students in underserved communities. My task was to grow the organization’s social media presence to reach more donors and supporters. At first, progress came slowly, but through research, experimentation, and persistence, I increased engagement by 20% and grew followers by 3% in just six weeks. That experience taught me that effective marketing is not about instant results, but about learning, adapting, and staying committed to the message and mission. Beyond professional growth, that internship gave me one of my most meaningful personal experiences. I worked directly with the students in the program, and one day, I helped a young boy read a complete sentence for the first time. The pride on his face and the excitement in his voice stayed with me. From then on, he found me every day to share another sentence he had read in class. That moment reminded me that the heart of marketing and of life is connection. Whether you are inspiring a purchase, a donation, or a sense of hope, the goal is always the same: to make someone feel seen, understood, and capable. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a career that combines creativity, strategy, and purpose. I hope to work with brands that prioritize authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability, companies that use marketing as a force for good. I want to design campaigns that do more than drive sales; I want to create stories that drive change. Through my studies, leadership experience, and hands-on work, I am learning not just how to succeed in marketing but how to make an impact, one story, one brand, and one audience at a time.

Selflessness, to me, is about showing up for others when they need it most. It is not about recognition or reward but about making a difference, even in small moments that might seem ordinary to others. I try to live that way every day, whether through leadership, volunteer work, or simply being there for the people around me. One of the moments that showed me what selflessness truly means occurred during my internship with Odyssey Atlanta, a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the educational gap for students in underserved communities. As part of my role, I spent time with the children in the program, helping them with reading and writing exercises. There was one little boy who struggled with reading and often grew frustrated during lessons. I started sitting with him every day, working through each word, sounding things out, and encouraging him when he wanted to give up. Then one afternoon, he finally read a full sentence on his own. His eyes lit up with pride, and he jumped up and hugged me. From that day on, he would find me every morning just to tell me a new sentence he had read in class. Watching his confidence grow reminded me that selflessness is not about grand gestures but about patience, consistency, and believing in someone even when they do not believe in themselves. At the University of Tennessee, I have carried that same mindset into my leadership roles. As Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council, I guided students through one of the most emotional and vulnerable experiences of their college careers. There were countless moments when I set aside my own stress to be there for others, to listen, and to remind them that they were strong enough to find their place in life. Leadership taught me that true selflessness means giving your time and energy to help others find their confidence. Outside of school, I have volunteered with St. Vincent de Paul and Must Ministries, helping families in need by organizing food and clothing drives. Those experiences have grounded me in gratitude and reminded me of the importance of community. Sometimes selflessness is as simple as sharing a smile, offering a warm meal, or listening to someone’s story. Growing up as one of five children also taught me to think beyond myself. Helping my younger siblings with homework, celebrating their wins, and comforting them through tough days showed me how much joy there is in giving without expecting anything in return. Each of these experiences has shaped my understanding of selflessness. It is about being patient when others are struggling, kind when others are hurting, and strong when others need support. Whether it is helping a child discover the joy of reading, leading with empathy, or serving my community, I have learned that the most meaningful impact comes from choosing to put others first. That is the person I strive to be every single day.

Books have always been more than just stories to me. They are lessons and mirrors that reflect parts of my own life I may not have fully understood until I saw them on the page. Each one has left me with something lasting, whether it was a reminder, a warning, or a new perspective on the world. The books that have spoken to me most deeply are Happy Place, The Housemaid, Everything, Everything, Beach Read, The Other Woman, It Ends With Us, and It Begins With Us. Reading "Happy Place" taught me about the beauty of vulnerability and the necessity of open communication. The characters reminded me that love is not always simple, but it is worth fighting for when it is real. I learned that relationships thrive when both people are willing to be honest, even when it is hard, and that love requires presence and effort. The Housemaid taught me to be careful about what I choose to believe and reminded me that appearances can be deceiving. It pushed me to question assumptions, listen to my intuition, and trust my own perspective, even when it is difficult to uncover the truth. Out of all the books I have read, Everything, Everything spoke to me the most. It showed me the power of curiosity and how important it is to step beyond fear and explore the world with an open heart. It reminded me that sometimes the walls we live inside are built from beliefs we never questioned, and we only discover our true strength by breaking free from them. Beach Read encouraged me to find balance. It showed me that I can chase my goals with determination while still making space for laughter and joy. That balance is something I want to carry into my future because it makes room for both ambition and happiness. The Other Woman made me reflect on the complexity of relationships. It taught me the importance of noticing red flags and trusting my own judgment, even when others may not see what I see. Finally, It Ends With Us and It Begins With Us taught me some of the most potent lessons of all. These books showed me the importance of loving myself and staying true to who I am, even when that means making painful choices. They reminded me that breaking generational cycles is never easy, but it is necessary, and that I have the power to choose a different future. They taught me that walking away is not a sign of weakness, but rather a demonstration of strength, and that protecting yourself and those you love is one of the most courageous acts a person can take. Together, these books have taught me to love authentically, trust myself, stay curious, and choose paths that align with who I am. They connect not only to my personal growth but also to my career goals. I aspire to bring both confidence and curiosity into everything I do, and I have learned that it begins with you and ends with you. The choices I make now will shape the person I become.

When I was in eighth grade, after being cast in my school’s musical, my dad surprised me by taking me to see Wicked. It was the first time I had ever seen a Broadway production, and from the moment the curtain rose, I was utterly captivated. Sitting beside him in the theater, I felt like I was stepping into a new world where music and storytelling could teach life lessons in ways I had never imagined. What has always stayed with me about Wicked is its message about staying true to yourself. The show illustrates how opportunities and recognition can be tempting, but if they force you to compromise your values, they are not worth pursuing. Elphaba’s journey demonstrates this beautifully. Her choice to “defy gravity” is not just about breaking free but about refusing to let the world dictate her identity. The song has become a reminder to me that when I face challenges or pressures, I must never lose sight of who I am and what I believe in. I also love how Wicked highlights the complexities of friendship and learning. Songs like “What Is This Feeling?” and “For Good” illustrate the complex, evolving nature of relationships. They remind me that friendships, like people, are not perfect, but they help shape who we become. The contrast between Glinda’s bubbly optimism and Elphaba’s fierce determination shows that two people can be completely different yet still learn from one another and create something meaningful. Even beyond its lessons, Wicked has inspired me creatively. After seeing the show, I went home and spent hours learning the music and even trying to create my own choreography to the dances. It pushed me to see musical theater not just as entertainment but as an outlet for expression and growth. For me, Wicked is more than just a favorite musical. It serves as a reminder of that night with my dad, of the excitement of discovering theater, and of the values I want to carry with me throughout life. It has taught me about courage, authenticity, and the importance of doing good even when it is hard. Those lessons will always be a part of me, just as the music of Wicked will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter since I was in elementary school, when I first watched her on Girl Meets World. From the very beginning, I loved the way she carried herself with so much confidence and humor. She felt like someone I could look up to, almost like a big sister I could learn from while I was growing up. As I got older, I began to follow her music as closely as I had followed her acting. I have listened to every album she has released, and her songs have grown with me over the years. When she released the music video for Tears, I was so excited that I made my roommates sit down and have a watch party with me. I wanted them to see what I saw in her, not just as an artist, but as someone who inspires confidence and joy. What I admire most about Sabrina is her confidence and how she uses it to inspire others. She never hides who she is, and her boldness has pushed me to embrace my own voice in college, in leadership roles, and in life. I especially loved her collaboration Please Please Please with Dolly Parton, because it showed how Sabrina is not only shaping her generation but also earning respect from women who have paved the way before her. Seeing her side by side with Dolly reminded me of how much she has already impacted music and culture, especially for young women who are learning to find their own confidence. Her music has taught me so much about life. She sings about heartbreak, new friendships, fresh beginnings, and the excitement and uncertainty of new relationships in a way that feels incredibly real. Man Child is one of my favorites because it is both honest and playful at the same time, reminding me that even the most challenging moments in relationships can be viewed with humor and strength. Go Go Juice, on the other hand, is the most upbeat song, and it always makes me want to get up and dance. It feels like an anthem for women who are busy, driven, and still determined to have fun while chasing their dreams. That kind of energy feels like pure girl power. Sabrina has given me more than music. She has given me confidence in myself and a sense of community through her art. She has reminded me that it is okay to feel heartbreak, to take risks, to embrace change, and to step into new chapters with courage. Watching her grow as an artist and a woman has inspired me to grow, too. Sabrina Carpenter has been a role model of mine, and she continues to inspire me to live boldly, work hard, and embrace every aspect of life.

Life is inherently complex, but I have learned that strength is defined not by avoiding challenges but by facing them with resilience, determination, and hope. My story has been shaped by adversity, yet those moments have become opportunities for growth and a source of my passion for serving others. I was raised by my mom, who became a single parent at just eighteen while also pursuing her education at Vanderbilt University. Watching her balance motherhood, academics, and responsibilities, which most people twice her age would find overwhelming, taught me what faithful perseverance looks like. She never missed an event in my life, encouraged me to chase opportunities outside of my comfort zone, and showed me that obstacles are never a reason to quit. Her example has inspired me to carry the same resilience into my own life. As one of five siblings, I have taken on responsibility early in life. I contribute to paying for my tuition, easing some of the financial burden on my family. Balancing work, school, and leadership is not always easy, but I see it as a way to honor the sacrifices my mom has made for me. This responsibility has motivated me to approach my education with discipline and a sense of purpose. It has also fueled my interest in Supply Chain Management, Marketing, and Information Management, because I have seen firsthand the importance of efficiency, resourcefulness, and innovation. Just as I have had to carefully manage my time and finances to make my education possible, I aim to utilize my career to develop sustainable, people-centered systems designed to create opportunities for others. Adversity has also shaped my leadership. As Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council, I mentored 119 women through one of the most emotional and overwhelming weeks of their college experience. Recruitment can test confidence and resilience, but I have committed to leading with love, empathy, and grace —values my mom instilled in me. I spent hours listening to their worries, helping them reflect on their worth, and reminding them that a single outcome does not define their future. The relationships I built during this time were proof that adversity is not just something you face alone; it can also be an opportunity to help others grow stronger. Beyond campus leadership, service has been my way of giving back to the community. At Odyssey Atlanta, I expanded their social media presence to help increase support for students, but my proudest moments were the relationships I built with the children. They would call or text me to share dreams or ask for advice, trusting me to be a mentor in their lives. With the Girl Scouts, I worked to inspire young women to believe in themselves and step into leadership roles, reminding them that their voices are powerful. My involvement in Wonders Church also continues to ground me. From helping prepare meals for families to participating in Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child, I have learned that the simplest acts of service can spark hope. Paying my tuition while pursuing my education has given me more than resilience; it has given me vision. It has shown me the value of hard work, the importance of efficiency, and the power of perseverance. These same values will shape my future career in supply chain and marketing, where I hope to create systems that not only deliver results but also make industries more sustainable and communities stronger. Adversity has prepared me to lead with both strategy and compassion, and I am determined to use that to make a lasting impact.

My involvement in my local church has been one of the most significant influences in my life and the foundation of my passion for service. From the time I was born, Wonders Church has been a second home to me. Walking into worship always felt like stepping into a place where I was surrounded by love, encouragement, and a strong sense of community. That atmosphere of belonging taught me from an early age that faith is not only about personal spirituality but also about how we show up for others in meaningful and tangible ways. As I grew older, I participated in nearly every community service project our church organized. I helped prepare meals so families could sit together at a table and share food, conversation, and laughter. I played with children who needed a safe space to feel joy, reminding me of the importance of making others feel seen and valued. I also participated in Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child, carefully filling shoeboxes with toys, school supplies, and essentials for children around the world. Knowing that these small boxes could bring happiness to a child who might otherwise go without gave me a new perspective on how even the simplest acts of kindness can have a profound impact. These experiences shaped the way I understood service—not as an occasional activity but as a way of living with empathy and generosity. Inspired by the example my church set, I asked my grandparents to help me create a foundation where giving back was the central mission. That project became a family effort, and it showed me how service can become a legacy passed down across generations. Service was never something I felt obligated to do; it was something I felt honored to be a part of, because it brought me closer to both my faith and my family. Those lessons are deeply connected to the volunteer work I take on now. At Odyssey Atlanta, I had the privilege of supporting students from underserved backgrounds whose energy and curiosity inspired me every day. Many of them called or texted me even after the programs ended, asking for advice or simply wanting someone to listen to their dreams. Knowing they trusted me reinforced the importance of mentorship and reminded me of the mentors who shaped me in my church community. Through my work with the Girl Scouts, I have helped inspire young women to find confidence in their voices and recognize their ability to step into leadership roles. Encouraging them reminded me of the joy I felt when others in church believed in me and made me feel capable of anything. These experiences are not separate from the foundation I built at Wonders Church; they are a continuation of it. My church taught me that service means building relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Today, whether I am mentoring students, encouraging young women, or leading through my campus organizations, I carry those same values forward. Wonders Church gave me more than a sense of home. It gave me the drive to make others feel at home in their communities, too, and that is a lesson I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

One of the most rewarding times I delighted others with my tinkering skills came during my internship with UPS Digital, where I was tasked with analyzing customer behavior to support product development. At first glance, it seemed like a straightforward assignment: review the data, prepare a report, and share the findings. But I saw an opportunity to do something more. Instead of producing static spreadsheets and charts, I wanted to create something interactive that could spark new ideas and help leaders see opportunities in ways they had not before. I turned to Tableau, a tool I had worked with in my information management classes, and began experimenting with different ways to visualize the data. The dataset was massive, encompassing over 40,000 customers and 36 competitors. I tinkered with filters, calculated fields, and dashboard layouts, exploring how I could make the information not only easy to understand but also actionable. My goal was to go beyond showing what customers were doing and instead demonstrate why those behaviors mattered and how UPS Digital could leverage them to design new services. Over time, I developed an interactive dashboard that enabled decision-makers to simulate scenarios and explore opportunities dynamically. By clicking through filters, they could identify gaps in competitor offerings, highlight customer segments with unmet needs, and project the potential impact of different strategies. It was not just a visualization of the past; it was a tool that hinted at the future. I essentially hacked the assignment, transforming a traditional data analysis project into a prototype for a potential product. When I finally presented the dashboard to my team, the response was immediate and energizing. Instead of passively listening to a presentation, team members leaned forward, asked to take control of the dashboard, and began clicking through the features themselves. They could instantly see connections in the data that had previously been hidden in static reports. Several colleagues commented that the dashboard could serve as a foundation for future product development, and others admitted they had never seen the data presented in such a dynamic way. What I had created through tinkering delighted them because it gave them a fresh perspective on both the problem and the potential solution. That experience felt like a hackathon moment within a corporate setting: taking on a challenge, experimenting with tools, and producing something innovative that exceeded expectations. It also reinforced my passion for blending supply chain and information management. In the supply chain, every decision depends on data, and in information management, the challenge is to structure and present that data in a way that makes it worthwhile. By tinkering with Tableau, I was able to merge the two sides, transforming raw information into actionable insights that could directly inform business strategy. Looking ahead, I aim to bring the same spirit of tinkering and problem-solving into my career. My dream is to develop tools and systems that enhance supply chains, making them more efficient, transparent, and people-centered. By combining information management with supply chain strategy, I can design solutions that not only reduce costs and improve processes but also create lasting value for businesses and communities. The experience I had at UPS Digital showed me that when you combine curiosity, technology, and a willingness to experiment, you can truly delight others and inspire change.

My interest in technology and information systems began with a desire to understand how data can be transformed into meaningful action. As a Supply Chain Management major with a collateral in Information Management, I have realized that the power of technology lies not only in collecting data, but in structuring, organizing, and applying it in ways that improve how systems operate. Information Management is where my passion truly lies because it provides the tools to make connections across disciplines and create solutions that are both innovative and practical. One project that solidified my interest was building Entity Relationship Diagrams that merged supply chain processes with information management. By mapping out data flow and cardinalities, I could see how decisions made in logistics and operations are directly tied to the way information is structured and shared. It fascinated me to learn that the efficiency of an entire supply chain often depends on how well its information is modeled and communicated. This experience inspired me to envision a career where I can bridge these fields to design systems that enhance decision-making, increase transparency, and create measurable value for businesses and communities. My dream job would allow me to specialize in information management within supply chain systems, focusing on data modeling, analytics, and technology integration. I hope to develop platforms that not only optimize efficiency but also support sustainability and accessibility. I envision myself creating solutions that reduce waste, enhance resilience, and enable organizations to serve their communities more effectively. I believe I am the best candidate for this scholarship because I combine academic focus with leadership and service. As Vice President of Recruitment Counselors, I mentored 119 women through the recruitment process, which required me to design systems of communication, support, and problem-solving that parallel my work in information management. During my service with Odyssey Atlanta, I utilized analytics and data-driven strategies to expand outreach and increase engagement, applying information management principles in a real-world nonprofit setting. These experiences reflect my ability to apply technical knowledge while leading with empathy and purpose. Being raised by a single mother who was also a full-time student taught me the value of perseverance and vision. She showed me that leadership requires both resilience and compassion, lessons I now carry into my academic and professional goals. This scholarship would enable me to continue pursuing my passion for information management, providing me with the resources to deepen my expertise and prepare for a career where I can design systems that integrate technology and supply chain management to make a meaningful impact.

I love math because it is a language of problem-solving and possibility. From a young age, I was drawn to the clarity and logic it provides. No matter how complex a problem may appear, math offers a way to break it down into smaller steps, analyze it carefully, and arrive at a solution. That sense of order and discovery has always inspired me, but what I love most is how math extends beyond the classroom and into the real world. As a double major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing with a collateral in Information Management, I see math as the foundation that connects efficiency, strategy, and creativity. In the supply chain, math is the backbone of logistics, forecasting, and optimization. It allows me to see how a straightforward purchase can trigger a cascade of calculations and decisions, from inventory restocking to transportation planning. In marketing, math fuels data analytics and consumer insights, showing me patterns in behavior that help brands connect with people in more meaningful ways. For me, math is not just about numbers on a page; it is about using those numbers to design better systems, tell more powerful stories, and make a tangible impact. Math also inspires the way I lead and serve. As Vice President of Recruitment Counselors, I mentored 119 women through the recruitment process, a role that required organization, patience, and the ability to think systematically while still focusing on individuals. Similarly, in my work with Odyssey Atlanta, I utilized data and strategy to enhance their social media outreach, resulting in a 20 percent increase in engagement and a 3 percent increase in followers within just six weeks. Math gave me the tools to measure impact, but my passion for people gave the numbers meaning. What excites me most is that math is a universal language. It connects industries, communities, and even cultures. It teaches discipline, resilience, and creativity. I love math because it challenges me to think critically while also giving me the confidence to know that every problem, no matter how difficult, has a solution. For me, math is not just a subject; it is a way of thinking that I will carry into my career, my leadership, and my service to others.

When confronted with adversity, I have learned to see challenges not as barriers but as opportunities to grow stronger and more determined. Much of this perspective comes from my mom, who became a single parent at eighteen while pursuing her education at Vanderbilt University. She faced enormous obstacles balancing motherhood, academics, and responsibilities that most people twice her age would have struggled to handle. Yet she never let those challenges stop her. She showed me by example that perseverance, faith, and resilience can turn setbacks into stepping stones. I have carried that lesson into my own life. As one of five siblings, I have always understood the importance of sacrifice and responsibility. Contributing toward my education, helping at home, and supporting my siblings taught me discipline and time management from a young age. While balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles has not always been easy, I never allowed the difficulty to stop me from pursuing my career aspirations. Instead, I used it as motivation to work harder and push past my comfort zone. For example, during my time as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council, I mentored 119 women through the recruitment process. Recruitment is a stressful and emotional experience for many, and at times, the weight of supporting so many women while managing my own responsibilities felt overwhelming. But I leaned into the skills my mom modeled for me: empathy, grace, and persistence. By focusing on one conversation, one woman, and one moment at a time, I was able to guide them with patience and compassion. The lasting relationships I built during this time proved to me that adversity is best handled not by retreating, but by leaning in with love and purpose. Adversity has also shaped my community service. At Odyssey Atlanta, I worked with students who faced educational and social challenges, yet they still showed up every day with joy and curiosity. Their resilience inspired me to match their energy and reminded me that even in difficult circumstances, hope and learning can flourish. This experience taught me that adversity can actually spark the most significant growth when met with determination and empathy. Each time I face obstacles, I remind myself of the sacrifices my mom made and the resilience of the people I have served. Those reminders fuel my motivation to keep moving forward in achieving my career goals, primarily as I pursue my double major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing. Adversity has shaped me into someone who does not quit when things get hard but instead rises to the challenge with the mindset that every obstacle is preparing me to lead with strength, empathy, and perseverance.

My name is Mikayla Riggins, and I am a double major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing, with a minor in Information Management, at the University of Tennessee. From a young age, I have been inspired by the women in my family, especially my mother and grandmother, who have shown me what resilience, sacrifice, and perseverance look like in practice. My mom became a single parent at just eighteen while pursuing her education at Vanderbilt University. Despite the challenges she faced, she never stopped showing up for my siblings and me. Her love, strength, and determination instilled in me the values I carry today. She taught me that education is both an opportunity and a responsibility to make the world a better place. I have taken that lesson to heart in my own journey. At the University of Tennessee, I serve as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council, where I have the privilege of mentoring 119 women through the recruitment process. Recruitment can be an overwhelming experience, but my goal was to ensure that every woman felt supported, valued, and confident in herself. I spent countless hours listening to their concerns, guiding them through challenges, and encouraging them to believe in themselves. Many of these women still reach out to me today for advice, which reminds me that leadership is not about a single moment but about building lasting confidence and trust. Beyond campus, I have dedicated myself to community service. Through my work with Odyssey Atlanta, I supported middle school students by helping expand the program’s reach through social media, ultimately increasing donor engagement by 20%. More importantly, I built relationships with students who often texted or called me to share their dreams or ask for advice. I also work with the Girl Scouts, where I help inspire young women to step into leadership roles and see their voices as powerful. These experiences reminded me that empowering others means being present, listening deeply, and reminding people of their worth. Looking forward, I plan to use my career in supply chain and marketing to create systems that not only function efficiently but also serve people effectively. Supply chains are about more than moving goods from one place to another. They impact access to essential resources, such as food, medicine, and education. I want to bring empathy into the field by designing systems that prioritize people as much as products. My goal is to be a leader who not only excels in business but also advocates for equity, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to women and underserved communities. I believe that supporting women means opening doors, mentoring the next generation, and leading with compassion. I want to carry forward the legacy of the strong women in my family by using my career, leadership, and service to empower others. Education has given me the tools, but it is my responsibility to use those tools to make a lasting difference in the world.

One project that I am especially passionate about involved creating entity relationship diagrams that merged the fields of supply chain management and information management. In my coursework, I had the opportunity to design systems that mapped out how information flows from suppliers to warehouses to customers, and how these flows could be represented in a structured way through diagrams. At first, it seemed like just a technical exercise, but I quickly realized that this project was much more than drawing boxes and lines. It was about finding clarity in complexity, uncovering relationships that drive real-world efficiency, and designing a system that people could rely on to make better decisions. When I worked on building the ERD, one of the most exciting parts was focusing on cardinalities. Understanding how many suppliers connect to warehouses, or how many customer orders are linked back to a single distribution center, compelled me to think deeply about the logic behind supply chains. Every relationship told a story. A one-to-many relationship between a supplier and its products reflected how a single decision could impact thousands of customers. A many-to-many relationship between customers and products revealed the complexity of demand patterns and the challenges of forecasting. These relationships helped me see that data is not just numbers but a language that explains how businesses operate. The project inspired me because it demonstrated how technology can simplify complex processes and make them accessible to decision-makers. Supply chain management is often thought of in terms of trucks, warehouses, and factories, but behind the scenes, it is information that drives it all. The ERD diagrams I built demonstrated that with the proper structure, businesses can track inventory, predict shortages, and respond to customer needs more effectively. What felt like an abstract technology assignment soon became a concrete demonstration of how I could use my skills to improve the systems that touch everyday life. Working in technology inspires me because it constantly presents opportunities to solve problems that matter. Every system we design has the potential to save time, reduce waste, and improve lives. I am motivated by the idea that technology is not only about efficiency but also about empathy. For example, when a supply chain system is designed well, a family receives their medicine on time, or a small business gets the products it needs to stay open. My ERD project taught me that technology is not just about technical precision; it is about creating tools that help people thrive. This project also reinforced the importance of blending my two academic focuses, supply chain and marketing, with information management. I want to continue designing systems that not only operate efficiently but also serve people effectively. Technology allows me to bridge these areas and bring innovation to fields that impact millions. It excites me to know that every project I work on has the potential to leave a meaningful mark.

The World Happiness Report 2025 offers a fascinating insight into how people worldwide perceive their happiness and well-being. Reviewing the data, one of the most surprising patterns I noticed was how countries with relatively modest levels of wealth often report high levels of positive emotions, while some wealthier nations rank lower. This challenged my assumption that economic prosperity is the strongest driver of happiness. While GDP per capita clearly contributes, the data reveal that factors such as social support, generosity, and freedom of choice are often equally significant in shaping how people perceive their lives. When comparing the rankings of the top ten countries for positive emotions and negative emotions, I found several surprises. Countries in Latin America frequently appear at the top of the list of positive emotions. Despite economic challenges, respondents in these nations consistently report high levels of joy, laughter, and daily enjoyment. This suggests that cultural values emphasizing family bonds, community connection, and finding joy in everyday life may outweigh material limitations when it comes to emotional well-being. On the other hand, countries experiencing conflict or instability dominate the list of negative emotions. These results underscore the significant impact of security and peace in alleviating feelings of worry, sadness, and anger. It was surprising, however, to see some middle-income countries with stable governance ranking relatively high for negative emotions, which suggests that stress and pressure are not confined to the poorest or least stable nations. If I had to select one parameter as the most crucial target goal, I would choose social support. Across the data, the presence of reliable relationships and supportive communities consistently correlates with higher happiness and lower negative emotions. Unlike GDP or life expectancy, social support can be strengthened through cultural shifts, community programs, and personal actions. It reflects the human need to belong and to know that someone will be there in times of difficulty. To me, optimizing for social support provides the broadest and most sustainable path to improving well-being. As I prepare for my career path in supply chain management and marketing, this information influences my perspective on work-life balance. Supply chains are about systems and efficiency, but they are also about people. Recognizing that positive emotions and overall happiness are deeply tied to support and connection reminds me to prioritize workplace culture alongside performance. Regardless of how successful I am professionally, my overall well-being will depend on my ability to maintain strong relationships, find purpose in my work, and strike a balance between responsibilities and personal fulfillment. The World Happiness Report 2025 makes it clear that happiness is not the result of a single factor, but rather the product of an ecosystem of social, cultural, and economic conditions. Understanding these dynamics prepares me to approach my career and personal life with a more holistic perspective, one that values human connection as much as achievement.

If an AI system were trained to understand and represent the Filipino American experience, I would want it to know that our story is rooted in resilience, family, and the ability to find joy even in the face of challenges. My grandmother came to the United States from the Philippines, and through her, I learned what it means to carry culture as both a gift and a responsibility. She brought with her not only traditions, recipes, and stories, but also the values of perseverance, sacrifice, and unconditional love for family. Being Filipino American is not only about blending two cultures. It is about carrying forward the strength of the generations before me while creating space for new opportunities. Family is the center of everything, and in our culture, it extends beyond immediate relatives into a larger circle of care and support. My grandmother’s courage created the opportunities I now have, and I honor her sacrifices by striving to live with the same determination and grace. I would want the AI to capture how we celebrate togetherness through food, laughter, storytelling, and traditions that connect us to our roots. But more importantly, I would want it to understand that identity is lived in small everyday moments, such as showing up for family events, helping my siblings with schoolwork, or listening to my grandmother’s stories at night. No algorithm could ever capture the emotions tied to my grandmother’s sacrifices or the pride I feel when I see how her perseverance shaped my mom into the strong, determined woman who raised me as a single parent while pursuing her education. Those quiet moments of love and sacrifice make my identity uniquely mine. Note: I used AI tools to help me organize and polish my thoughts for this essay, but the experiences, values, and stories shared here are entirely my own.

I believe making the world a better place begins with showing up for others and creating opportunities that allow them to thrive. Currently, I am strengthening my community through service, mentorship, and leadership. At Odyssey Atlanta, I had the privilege of working with students whose joy and curiosity inspired me daily. I helped grow the nonprofit’s social media outreach to connect with more families, donors, and schools, but the real impact came from the relationships I built with the students. Many people reached out to me outside of the program for advice or encouragement, and those conversations showed me the importance of being present and supportive. It reminded me that even small moments of connection can spark confidence and possibility in someone’s life. I have also dedicated time to organizations like the Girl Scouts, where I encouraged young women to believe in themselves, embrace leadership roles, and celebrate their voices. Being able to inspire others in this way has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. I am also deeply committed to mentorship through my role as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council, where I guided 119 women through the recruitment process. My goal was not only to lead them but to help them feel seen, valued, and confident in who they are. Many still reach out to me for advice, which has shown me that the relationships I build have lasting meaning. Looking ahead, I plan to continue this work by using my double major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing to make industries more efficient, sustainable, and people-centered. Supply chains are the backbone of how goods move in the world, and I want to help improve systems so that they benefit communities, reduce waste, and create greater accessibility for everyday people. Marketing allows me to connect with people’s needs and communicate solutions in ways that inspire trust and action. Together, these fields provide me with the tools to create an impact on both a practical and human level. I know that my career path will challenge me, but I am motivated by the lessons my mom instilled in me about perseverance, love, and service. She taught me to never settle for what is comfortable, to seek the unknown, and to lead with empathy and grace. Those values guide me in every setting, whether it is helping a student, mentoring young women, or planning for my professional future. My vision for making the world a better place is rooted in service and leadership. I aim to design systems that operate efficiently and fairly, while ensuring that individuals feel supported and valued. Whether through my career, community involvement, or the relationships I build, I will continue to strive to leave every space better than I found it.

Service, kindness, and family are the values that have shaped me into the person I am today. Each of these threads has guided my path, from community involvement to leadership roles, and they are the foundation of the impact I hope to make in the future. My time at Odyssey Atlanta has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Odyssey’s mission is to close the opportunity gap for students, and while I went in to serve, I came away profoundly changed. My role focused on expanding their social media presence to connect with more donors, schools, and families. In just six weeks, I helped increase engagement by 20% and grow their follower base by 3%. Yet the most meaningful impact was not in the numbers but in the students themselves. Every child I met carried a light in their hearts. They arrived each day with joy and curiosity that was contagious. Some even reached out to me afterward, calling or texting to ask questions, share their dreams, or seek advice. Knowing that they trusted me in that way was humbling. It reminded me that the most potent part of service is not just giving but being fully present. The students showed me that curiosity is one of the greatest strengths a person can carry, and they left a lasting mark on me by reminding me that education is about confidence, possibility, and hope. I gained a great deal through my work with the Girl Scouts. Being able to mentor and inspire young women allowed me to encourage them to believe in themselves, step into leadership roles, and celebrate their unique strengths. I loved showing them that their voices matter and that they can dream as big as they want. Encouraging them reminded me of the mentorship I have received throughout my own journey and inspired me to pass that gift along. These experiences showed me that service is not just about helping in the moment but about sparking something within others that can carry them forward. Kindness and compassion guide me in everything I do, and one meaningful way I have embodied these values is through my role as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council. In this role, I had the privilege of mentoring 119 women as they navigated the recruitment process. Recruitment is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming and emotional. My responsibility was to ensure that every woman felt supported, valued, and understood. I spent countless hours listening to their concerns, offering guidance, and encouraging them when they doubted themselves. My goal was not only to guide them through the logistics of recruitment but also to instill confidence in themselves. Watching their growth and resilience throughout the process was incredibly rewarding, and to this day, many of them still reach out to me for advice. My mom taught me that leadership should always be rooted in love, empathy, and grace, and I carried that into every interaction I had with these women. Leading such a large group required patience, generosity, and the willingness to see each individual for who she is. That experience showed me the power of leading by example and reminded me that sometimes the most important thing you can do for someone is to believe in them until they believe in themselves. At the heart of who I am and all that I strive to do is family. The person who has defined that for me is my mom. She became a single parent at just eighteen years old while also pursuing her education at Vanderbilt University. That path was not easy, yet she never missed an event in my life. Whether it was a school play, a sports game, or an award ceremony, she was always there, cheering me on. Her perseverance taught me that family is not about perfection or ease, but about showing up with unwavering commitment. As one of five siblings, I strive to honor her sacrifices by supporting my family, helping around the house, contributing to my education, and encouraging my siblings to pursue their goals. What I admire most about my mom is that she never settled for what was comfortable. She pushed herself to seek the unknown and to build a life for us that was grounded in resilience and love. That mindset has shaped who I am today. To me, family means sacrifice, perseverance, and unconditional love. It means celebrating victories together, standing by one another through challenges, and building a foundation that allows each person to thrive. Her journey has shown me that when family comes first, everything else falls into place, because the values you build at home shape the way you treat the world around you.

Being raised by my mom, who was a single parent and a full-time student at Vanderbilt University at the age of eighteen, has shaped every aspect of who I am and the goals I set for my future. Her story is one of love, perseverance, and ambition, and it has inspired me to push myself beyond what feels comfortable and to always reach for more. Even with the challenges she faced, my mom never missed a single event in my life. Whether it was a school play, a sports game, or an award ceremony, she was always there. Her presence showed me that no matter how demanding life gets, family and commitment always come first. That dedication made me realize the importance of showing up for others and being reliable, values I carry with me into my academics, my leadership roles, my community service, and my vision for the future. What has always stood out to me is her determination to seek the unknown. She never settled for less than what she knew she could achieve, and she encouraged me to do the same. When I am tempted to stay in a place that feels safe, I hear her voice pushing me to challenge myself, take risks, and learn more than what I already know. Her resilience taught me that growth happens when you step outside of what is comfortable, and that lesson guided me in choosing to pursue a double major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing. I sought a path that would challenge me and enable me to make a significant impact, combining the problem-solving aspects of supply chain management with the creative and people-focused elements of marketing. Her influence has also shaped the way I lead. As Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council, I mentor women as they navigate the recruitment process. My mom taught me that leadership is not just about directing people, it is about leading with love, empathy, and grace. I strive to make every woman I work with feel supported and valued, just as my mom made me feel seen in every stage of my life. These lessons extend into my community service. One of the most meaningful experiences I have had was volunteering with Odyssey Atlanta, a nonprofit focused on closing the opportunity gap for students through education. I helped expand their social media outreach, raising awareness about educational poverty and attracting donors, schools, and families. In just six weeks, I grew followers across platforms by 3 percent and increased engagement by 20 percent. More importantly, I witnessed the power of education to change lives. The students I met inspired me with their curiosity and resilience, reminding me that service is about creating opportunities for others to thrive. Growing up in a single-parent household taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of giving back. My mom’s journey gave me strength, resilience, and compassion. She shaped me into a woman who values both efficiency and empathy, and I plan to carry those lessons into my career, my service, and every opportunity to lead and inspire others.

What drives me to pursue a career in supply chain management is the belief that this field is the heartbeat of every business. From the moment a customer places an order to the second that order arrives, the supply chain makes it possible. I was drawn to this major because I enjoy understanding how things work behind the scenes and how small decisions can have a significant impact on efficiency, cost, and customer satisfaction. It excites me to know that the work I do in this field will not only help companies succeed but will also influence the way communities and industries operate. My vision for the future is to be part of creating supply chain systems that are not only efficient but also sustainable and innovative. In the construction and manufacturing industries, there is a growing need to rethink the way products are sourced, produced, and delivered. I aim to help supply networks that minimize waste, optimize time, and reduce costs, while also making them resilient to global challenges. I envision myself working at the intersection of technology and operations, utilizing tools like Tableau and Alteryx to develop solutions that enhance and optimize supply chains. The values that guide me are hard work, service, and resilience. As one of five children, I have learned the importance of perseverance and the value of supporting others. I believe in going above and beyond what is required, and I find fulfillment in helping people succeed, whether that means mentoring peers in my Panhellenic leadership roles or collaborating with classmates on challenging projects. These values will guide me as I enter an industry where teamwork, adaptability, and integrity are essential. As a woman in supply chain, I also hope to stand out by breaking barriers and inspiring others. Representation matters, and I aim to demonstrate that women can excel as leaders in industries such as construction and manufacturing, where female voices are often underrepresented. My goal is to bring a fresh perspective that challenges traditional thinking and to open doors for others who may not yet see themselves in this field. I plan to stand out as a leader by combining technical skills with a people-first mindset. While I am committed to mastering the tools and systems that enable supply chains to run smoothly, leadership is also about effective communication, empathy, and a clear vision. I want to be the kind of leader who not only drives results but also inspires others to see the bigger picture of why our work matters. Supply chain management is more than a career path for me. It is a way to create meaningful change by improving how industries operate and how people experience the products and services they depend on every day. I am driven by the opportunity to make that difference, and I am excited to bring my passion, values, and leadership to this field.

As a woman pursuing a double major in Supply Chain Management and Digital Marketing, I am inspired by the critical role supply chains play in shaping the future of construction and manufacturing. Every building we step into and every product we use is the result of a carefully planned system of sourcing, transporting, and delivering goods. To me, supply chain management is not just about moving products from point A to point B. It is about creating efficient systems that have the power to improve industries, strengthen communities, and build long-term sustainability. I want to be part of that transformation. In both construction and manufacturing, efficiency, transparency, and sustainability are no longer optional. They are the foundation of success in a rapidly changing world. With the skills I am developing in my coursework, including data analysis and systems design using platforms such as Tableau and Alteryx, I aim to help companies create more resilient and environmentally responsible supply networks. For example, in construction, I see opportunities to build systems that ensure materials arrive on time while reducing waste and lowering costs. In manufacturing, I aim to design processes that enable products to reach customers efficiently while upholding high standards of quality and minimizing environmental impact. My vision is to be a leader who not only understands the logistics but also the bigger picture of how these industries can adapt to meet global challenges. As a woman, I also recognize the importance of representation in the supply chain field. These industries have historically been male-dominated, and female leadership is still underrepresented. I want to show that women can lead in construction and manufacturing, bringing new perspectives that challenge traditional ways of thinking. My goal is to serve as a role model for other women who may not yet see themselves reflected in these industries. By demonstrating that women can thrive and lead in supply chain management, I hope to inspire the next generation to pursue careers that once may have felt out of reach. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my journey. As one of five children in my family, I have taken an active role in helping pay for my education. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial pressure and enable me to dedicate more of my energy to learning and gaining practical experience. It would allow me to pursue internships, immerse myself in professional development opportunities, and fully commit to developing the skills necessary for success. Moreover, it would represent an investment not only in my education but also in my ability to make a lasting impact on construction, manufacturing, and supply chain management as a whole. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to build the foundation for a career where I can shape supply chains that are efficient, sustainable, and inclusive. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of industries that are essential to daily life and to leave a legacy of positive change for those who come after me.

Sustainability should be a priority in supply chain management and marketing because both fields significantly influence the success of businesses, the well-being of communities, and the future of our planet. The supply chain influences every stage of product creation, transportation, and delivery, meaning every decision has an environmental impact. From sourcing raw materials to packaging and transportation, the supply chain determines the amount of waste produced and the emissions released. Marketing also plays a decisive role because it shapes consumer behavior and influences the choices people make every day. If sustainability is prioritized in both areas, the potential for positive change is enormous. Businesses have a responsibility to recognize that the systems they design and the stories they tell do not exist in isolation but directly affect the world around us. For me, pursuing a career in supply chain management means I will be at the center of designing and improving systems that can either harm or help the environment. I envision myself utilizing the analytical skills I am developing to create more efficient processes that reduce waste, minimize carbon emissions, and optimize resource utilization. For example, optimizing transportation routes or collaborating with suppliers who practice ethical and sustainable sourcing are changes that may seem small but collectively make a significant impact. I know that supply chains will always be complex, but I am inspired by the idea that they can be reimagined to be both efficient and sustainable. My interest in marketing reinforces this vision because I have learned that it is not enough for companies to adopt sustainable practices quietly. To make real progress, customers need to be engaged and inspired to care about these choices. Marketing has the power to make sustainability visible, to show people why their purchasing decisions matter, and to create a culture where protecting the environment becomes a shared value. I reflect on my internship with Odyssey Atlanta, where I learned the importance of perseverance in effective communication. My task was to grow awareness for the nonprofit’s mission, and at first, the results were slow. However, I continued to try new strategies, make adjustments, and learn until engagement increased significantly. That experience taught me that communication can spark action when it is consistent, meaningful, and people-centered. I see myself carrying that same lesson into the future, using marketing to amplify sustainable practices and encourage customers to support businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility. In addition to my internships, my leadership and volunteer experiences have shaped my perspective on sustainability. Volunteering with organizations like St. Vincent de Paul and Must Ministries showed me the importance of taking responsibility for the impact we leave behind. These moments reminded me that leadership and service are not just about solving problems in the present but about making choices that help others thrive in the future. I see sustainability the same way. It is about ensuring that the choices we make today do not limit the opportunities of tomorrow. Looking ahead, I aim to collaborate with organizations that view sustainability not as a trend, but as a responsibility. I envision myself contributing to solutions that reduce packaging waste, promote circular supply chains, and find innovative ways to align efficiency with environmental stewardship. At the same time, I want to use my marketing skills to connect with people emotionally, helping them see that their small choices collectively create lasting impact. I am passionate about being part of a generation of professionals who lead with both strategy and heart, and sustainability allows me to do just that.

My decision to pursue a career in marketing is deeply personal because it reflects both who I am and what inspires me. I have always been drawn to understanding people, not just what they say but how they feel, what motivates them, and what makes them connect to a story or a community. Studying Supply Chain Management and Digital Marketing at the University of Tennessee revealed to me the value I place on both strategy and creativity, and marketing became the ideal way to combine these two passions. What excites me is not just the idea of selling a product but creating genuine connections that leave people feeling understood and valued. My internship with Odyssey Atlanta was one of the experiences that first showed me the power of marketing when it is done with heart. I was asked to expand the nonprofit’s social media presence to attract donors and increase awareness. At first, the results were slow, and it was easy to feel discouraged, but I kept experimenting, adapting, and learning. By the end, I had increased engagement by 20 percent and grown followers by 3 percent in six weeks, but what mattered most was realizing that each post had the potential to inspire someone to take action and support children in need of opportunity. That experience taught me that marketing is not about numbers on a screen; it is about people whose lives can change when a story resonates with them. My leadership role as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the Panhellenic Council similarly shaped me. Guiding students through sorority recruitment was about far more than organizing logistics; it was about listening, supporting, and helping them feel confident in one of the most vulnerable times of their college experience. Those moments reminded me that communication has the power to ease fears, inspire courage, and help someone see possibilities they might not have imagined for themselves. That is precisely why I am passionate about marketing: it is not just a career path, but a way to utilize my confidence, perseverance, grace, and strength to create meaningful experiences for others. I am motivated by the opportunity to help people feel connected, whether it is to a brand, a community, or a cause. I am inspired by the opportunity to combine creativity and strategy, bringing ideas to life in ways that have a real impact. Most of all, I am passionate about pursuing a career where I can continue to learn, grow, and make a difference by doing what I love: telling stories, building relationships, and helping others feel seen and valued.

When I reflect on who I am, I do not measure myself solely by academic degrees, titles, or positions I have held, though those are important milestones. Instead, I think about the journey that has shaped me, the moments where I had to summon confidence I didn’t yet know I had, the perseverance that kept me steady in challenges, and the grace and strength that guided me as I learned to lead and to grow. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where curiosity and drive were part of my nature from an early age. I have always loved learning and understanding how things work, whether it was how a system connects behind the scenes or how people find a sense of belonging. This curiosity led me to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where I chose to study Supply Chain Management and Digital Marketing, pairing the logic of systems with the creativity of storytelling. At first, I wondered if this unusual combination would make sense. Still, over time, I realized that this mix mirrors who I am: analytical yet empathetic, strategic yet creative, driven yet people-centered. My confidence has grown most in leadership roles. Serving as Vice President of Recruitment Counselors for the University of Tennessee’s Panhellenic Council was not just about managing logistics; it was about guiding people through one of the most emotional and vulnerable processes of their college experience, sorority recruitment. I had to embody steadiness, showing grace when others felt uncertain and strength when the responsibility felt overwhelming. What I discovered was that leadership is not about standing above others, but about walking beside them, instilling courage, and reminding them of their worth. Perseverance has also been a central aspect of my path. During my internship with Odyssey Atlanta, a nonprofit focused on closing the educational gap, I was tasked with expanding the organization’s social media reach to attract donors and raise awareness. At first, the metrics were discouraging, and my ideas weren’t always met with immediate success, but I continued experimenting, testing strategies, and adapting based on what I learned. By the end, I had increased engagement by 20 percent and grown my followers by 3 percent in six weeks; more importantly, I realized that perseverance is not about waiting for change, but about creating it step by step. My volunteer experiences have also deepened this lesson. Whether mentoring younger students during recruitment, serving with community organizations like St. Vincent de Paul and Must Ministries, or participating in service projects through my sorority, I have seen how even small acts of kindness can spark hope. Grace, to me, means leading with compassion and remembering that people matter most, and service has been the most straightforward way for me to live that out. This scholarship would help me continue that journey by easing the financial burden of higher education, giving me the freedom to pursue internships, leadership roles, and service opportunities that align with my values. It would also allow me to honor Kalia D. Davis’ legacy of excellence, resilience, and kindness by carrying those same qualities into my career and community. Who I am is still a story in progress, but at its core, it is one of growth, a young woman who has learned to stand firm, adapt, and inspire others along the way.