My name is Monte Hunter and I am from Detroit, Michigan. I am an only child who was blessed to come from a two parent household. Growing up, I was always curious about how things worked especially when it came to money, technology, and the way businesses shape people’s everyday lives. Over time, that curiosity grew into a passion. I realized that business is not just about numbers or profits; it is about problem-solving, leadership, innovation, and helping communities grow. That is why I chose to major in business. I want a career that will challenge me, give me stability, and allow me to make an impact. My own experiences have also shaped this decision. Throughout school, I often had to work harder than others to stay organized, understand instructions, or adapt to new situations. Being on the autism spectrum taught me to persevere, to break tasks into steps, and to look at problems from different perspectives. Those challenges helped me develop a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to think creatively. Those are qualities that are valuable in any business career. Instead of letting difficulties discourage me, I’ve learned to use them to my advantage, which motivates me to continue building a future I can be proud of. I’m ready to show the world what I can do as opposed to what my diagnosis says I can’t do. After graduation, I plan to use my degree to enter the business and technology field, ideally working in areas like information systems, operations, or project management. I’m especially interested in roles that combine problem-solving with working behind the scenes to make processes more efficient. Eventually, I hope to either advance into management or start my own small business. Entrepreneurship is something I’ve always been curious about, because it represents independence, creativity, and the chance to build something meaningful from the ground up. In the long term, my goal is not only to build a successful career for myself but also to help others. I want to gain enough knowledge and experience to mentor younger students—especially those with learning differences or disabilities—who might feel unsure about their future. I want to show them that there is a place for them in the business world and that their unique strengths can truly shine. Majoring in business is the first step toward creating the life I envision for myself: one where I grow professionally, support my community, and eventually become someone who can open doors for others. With determination, education, and the right opportunities, I know I can achieve these goals and use my career to make a lasting, positive impact.

I remember being in the first or second grade when my mother stormed out of a school meeting in tears after being told that I suffered from autism spectrum disorder. They went down a long list of all the things I would “probably never be able to do.” We were told I might never live on my own, never learn to drive a car, and might never live what they considered a “normal” life. At the time, I didn’t fully understand the weight of those words, but I understood enough to know that something about me made adults doubt my future. As I grew older, I began to realize that their doubts didn’t define me but they motivated me. I wanted to make a change in my life because I refuse to be limited by the expectations others placed on me. My diagnosis is a part of who I am, but it does not determine my potential. Instead of letting it hold me back, I use it as a reminder that I am capable of more than people assume. The steps I’ve taken so far have been intentional and focused on building independence and confidence. I am in the process of completing high school and determined to continue my education, even when the path felt overwhelming at times. I began researching careers that combine my interests in business and technology, fields that are rapidly growing and offer opportunities for long-term success. I’ve also pushed myself to develop better communication, time-management, and study skills, areas that haven’t always come easily to me. Every milestone, big or small, is proof that I can achieve the things people once believed I couldn’t. This scholarship will play a major role in bringing me closer to my goals. Financial challenges have always been a barrier for my family, and paying for college is a significant strain. Receiving this scholarship would reduce the pressure and allow me to focus on my education rather than worrying constantly about how to cover the next bill. It would also give me the chance to access the resources, classes, and support systems I need to succeed in a college environment where I can grow socially, academically, and professionally. I don’t just want to achieve my goals for myself, I want to pay it forward. I know what it feels like to be underestimated, misunderstood, or told that your dreams aren’t realistic. In the future, I hope to mentor younger students on the autism spectrum or others who struggle with confidence and identity. Whether through tutoring, volunteering, or simply sharing my story, I want to show them that their challenges don’t make them incapable, they make them strong. I want to be the person for someone else that I wish I had when I was younger.