My earliest memory of film goes back to when I was just 5 years old. It was my dad who first introduced me to the world of cinema, particularly his love for Bruce Lee and martial arts films. The movie that sparked my passion was 'Return of The Dragon,' and ever since that moment, the realm of film has held me in its grasp. Beyond being a mere pastime, cinema is an art form that I am deeply passionate about, a passion that I share with countless others. What truly fascinates me about cinema is its ability to craft narratives and breathe life into characters. This unique power of film to transport us to both familiar and fantastical worlds has left an indelible mark on me. Whether it's the iconic superheroes like Deadpool, Black Panther, and Spider-Man or the quiet yet profound journeys of characters like Chihiro from 'Spirited Away' and Seita from 'Grave of the Fireflies,' I am constantly awed by film's ability to shape not only our perceptions but also our lives. Speaking of personal heroes, Spider-Man stands out as a symbol of inspiration and relatability for me. Even at the age of 7, I would proudly declare Spider-Man as my all-time favorite character. In my room, there's a picture of me wearing Spider-Man pajamas that I received as a Christmas gift one year. It was during winter break in 2011 that I first learned about the introduction of the first Black Spider-Man in comic books. This revelation profoundly inspired me, as I finally had a hero I could genuinely identify with. In recent years, the films featuring Miles Morales have pushed me to aim higher. I vividly remember the confidence and empowerment I felt after watching 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' in 2018. Not only was it a groundbreaking animated masterpiece that continues to influence the industry, but it also instilled newfound self-confidence in me. The 'leap of faith' scene from the movie holds immense significance for me, particularly as I navigate the college application process. Miles' family dynamic with his mom mirrors my own relationship with my mom and her unwavering support and confidence that I will achieve great things, regardless of where life takes me. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey, providing me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration. There I will continue on my journey to create films that inspire. Also, through my films I hope to give voice to underrepresented people in the entertainment industry. What I truly love about making movies is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to a finished production. For me it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their voices. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of higher education but also provide me with the opportunity to continue my journey creating. This scholarship would free me from searching for work during school to help pay off college. I would be able to fully focus on my art and learning all I can from my college experience.

Throughout my life, it has become increasingly evident that I am forging my own unique path. In various environments, I have consistently found myself as an outlier. As a young Black male, my interests always appeared to diverge from the norm. In my neighborhood, most boys who looked like me were drawn to basketball or football. While in school, I am often the only Black male participating in the most advanced math and college-level courses, joining sports not typically associated with my racial background (i.e. tennis, swimming), and taking the lead in my school's theater production program. This reality has been a fundamental aspect of my identity for the majority of my life and shaped my formative years. Navigating this sense of isolation was challenging, as I consistently found myself standing out in environments where I sought to belong. In the fourth grade, my family relocated to a predominantly white school district. My passion for films, photography, and languages continued to set me apart from my Black peers. Ironically, it was during this same period that I finally met like-minded students, who also had similar passions, but these students did not look like me. The more I followed my passions, the more I found kindred spirits of all diverse backgrounds. Unfortunately, I still found myself as the sole Black student in my digital photography class, AP Chemistry classes, and Chinese language classes. This is a problem because not seeing representation in my academic pursuits felt isolating. I was deemed too quirky and smart to be with Black students, and a unicorn, or a rare exception, among non-Black students. Seeing students like me would have meant that I wasn’t alone and that my peers would know that Black students have the capacity to take these types of courses. As I progressed through high school and received lessons about being a Black male in society, I began to view my situation differently. I was not merely pursuing my interests alongside individuals I couldn't relate to or as the solo representation of my race, I was blazing a trail for others like me. I was not just an enthusiast of the arts; I was a leader, a person with whom other Black students could identify. I was actively shaping a cultural norm for others to follow. I believe that my journey venturing into uncharted territories academically and socially while pursuing my passions has been one of both self-discovery and advocacy. I have become a trailblazer, paving the way for other Black students to explore their interests, especially if they don’t fit the norms. As a leader in my school's theater community, I offer a platform for more Black students to engage in the arts. I also established a film club, providing a space for diverse film enthusiasts to collaborate and create together. This is a vision I would bring to any place I go to after High School in hopes of furthering paths for Black males in higher education.

When I started high school, my sole focus was academics. My goal was to maintain a 4.0+ GPA, viewing high school as a mere pit stop on my journey to college. I have my mother to thank for encouraging me to discover something to be a part of during high school. She insisted that I not wait until college to have a life. In my sophomore year, I joined the theater tech crew on the lights team for the production of Pride and Prejudice. I didn’t know anyone or how to do anything, and since my high school was newly built in 2019, and opened to only virtual students in 2020, we had brand new equipment but no established crew to help train us in 2021. Despite the challenges of navigating new equipment and establishing a tech team from scratch, this journey ignited a passion for theater tech production within me. In our journey of growing as a tech team we learned that our efforts to be the best positively affected our community. Our production of Newsies in 2022 garnered praise and support from members of our community and from people outside our county. An actor and star of the Newsies Broadway production, Jeremy Jordan, sent a video to congratulate us on our opening night. We knew that the joy and awe we brought to the stage made people happier than when they left. For our production of Mary Poppins, we put so much effort in tech (lights, sound, set, props, costumes, house) to produce the magic that people saw on stage. Hearing people who saw the show tell everyone they know that Mary Poppins is the best show they've seen on a high school stage was so satisfying. For each production, we also hosted a show for nearby elementary school students and future high schoolers from the middle school. This is when my passion for this extracurricular comes full circle. I gave these young students tours of the tech booth and the lighting board. It gave me so much pride to hear them say that they're excited about tech production and they want to be a member of the Crofton High Cardinal Players one day. I also volunteer with my former middle school theater production shows to help them set up, run the show and train their middle school age tech team. Giving back to my community in this way helps future high school techies with their productions and train the next generation of tech crews. Seeing and supporting the future of theater tech helps me know that the community we built and the community we served has had such a big impact on not only me but them as well.

Throughout my life, I've navigated uncharted territories both academically and personally, forging a unique path that has been both isolating and empowering. As a young Black male, my interests often diverged from societal norms, leading me to stand out in various environments. While my peers were drawn to sports, I found myself pursuing passions like film, photography, and languages. Even after relocating to a predominantly white school district, I remained an outlier, often the only Black student in advanced classes or specialized programs. Amid these academic and social challenges, I faced another significant obstacle: protecting my mental health amidst my parents' divorce. The alternating custody arrangement between my parents created a tumultuous environment, where I felt like I was living a double life. While my mom encouraged us to have opinions and explore our preferences, my dad's household was marked by emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. Despite years of hoping for improvement, I eventually made the difficult decision to walk away from my father's home to prioritize my well-being. This pivotal moment was both liberating and terrifying, as it marked the beginning of my journey to reclaim agency over my life. As I dealt with the consequences of my decision, including legal ramifications and strained family relationships, I discovered my inner strength and resilience. My actions set off a chain of events that ultimately led to positive changes for myself and my siblings, as my mom was awarded full custody. Today, I continue to navigate challenges and pursue my passions, determined to shape my destiny and advocate for others facing similar struggles. As a leader in my school's theater community and the founder of a film club, I strive to create spaces where diverse voices are heard and celebrated. Through my journey of self-discovery and advocacy, I've learned the importance of authenticity, resilience, and owning my choices to live a life true to myself. In my artistic pursuits, I seek to capture moments of wonder, joy, and resilience, weaving narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether through photography, film, or writing, I hope to inspire people to dream big, expand the world around them, and live life with an open mind. With each aperture, frame, or word, I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world, sharing my unique perspective and celebrating the boundless possibilities of the creative spirit. "Are you sure? Is this what you want to do with your life? Can you make a living this way?" Those were the questions my father posed when I decided on the path of pursuing my passion for the arts. His doubts sometimes echoed in my mind as I navigated through the uncertainties of pursuing a creative career. Despite facing skepticism and minimal support from those close to me, I never wavered in my decision. I remained steadfast in my commitment to share my creativity and artistry with the world, unwavering in my pursuit of a fulfilling artistic career. I am proud and will always be proud to share my creativity and art with the world. Nothing is going to change that. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marked a significant milestone in my journey, providing me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration.  There I will continue on my journey to create films that inspire. Also, through my films, I hope to give voice to underrepresented people in the entertainment industry. What I truly love about making movies is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to finish production. For me, it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their voices. With each new artistic endeavor, I honed my skills and expanded my creative horizons, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Throughout my college experience, I anticipate further evolution and refinement of my artistic craft as I collaborate with fellow creatives and immerse myself in diverse artistic disciplines. As an aspiring filmmaker, I am passionate about using my art to amplify marginalized voices and advocate for social change. Through powerful storytelling and evocative imagery, I aspire to inspire others to dream boldly and embrace the beauty of the human experience. Looking ahead, I'm excited to continue exploring my interests and making a positive impact in my community. Despite the obstacles I've faced, I remain optimistic about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. By embracing my identity, embracing my struggles, and embracing my passions, I'm confident that I can continue to thrive and inspire others to do the same. As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me the lessons I've learned and the determination to create a brighter, more inclusive future for myself and those around me.

In honor of Black History Month, I'd like to highlight Kemp Powers, a filmmaker whose multifaceted talents have greatly influenced and inspired me. As a playwright, screenwriter, and director, Kemp Powers has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, breaking barriers and paving the way for aspiring Black artists like myself. His work on Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, is so influential for me. As the co-director and head writer for the film, the way he weaves in not only Miles’ internal conflict through the movie but also all the world-building, characters, and external conflict in this movie makes it worthy of its Oscar nomination. He said something in an interview for that movie that will always inspire me to push myself, “I make movies that I would want to see. The bar I set is if I would go out of my way to buy a ticket for my movie. No outside pressure is greater than the expectation I have for myself.” That rhetoric is something that I will take to New York University as a filmmaker. I want to make movies that I wish to share with the world. I want to produce content not just for people to consume but for people to digest, I want people to talk, collaborate, and start discussions that foster creativity globally. Similar to how his screenplay for "Soul," his play "One Night in Miami," showcases the depth of his storytelling prowess and his ability to explore complex themes with nuance and sensitivity. Through his art, Powers shines a light on the Black experience, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the richness and diversity of Black culture. Beyond his creative achievements, Kemp Powers serves as a role model for aspiring artists, especially those from underrepresented communities. He shares through podcasts and interviews ways artists like me can improve upon ourselves and what he has accomplished. His journey to success is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and determination. By sharing his stories and amplifying Black voices, Kemp Powers has inspired me to pursue my creative endeavors fearlessly and unapologetically. His dedication to authenticity and telling stories that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds serve as a guide for aspiring Black leaders in the arts and beyond. My pursuit of higher education and courage to shoot for greatness is one such product of Power’s inspiration. I applied and was accepted into New  York University for Film and Television Production, which will provide me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and collaboration. Kemp’s dedication, creativity, and drive are traits that I will carry with me throughout my education and into my future.

My greatest challenge was when I decided to protect my mental health. Choosing between my parents after a divorce is one of the most difficult decisions that changed my life. I was seven years old when my parents divorced and for the next eight years they shared custody of my two little sisters and I. We’d spend one week with mom and one week with dad, alternating every Sunday. Transition Sundays caused me so much mental anxiety and severe stress. These years were not easy because my parents have very different parenting styles, which made switching between households like living a double life. At my dad’s, I experienced years of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. There was a lack of freedom and intentional isolation from friends and family. I was forced to be a version of my dad, not being allowed to be my own person. At 15 years old, I lacked the basic skills of ordering my own food, picking out my own clothes, or making simple decisions for myself. At my mom’s, I experienced her encouraging us to have opinions and explore our preferences. She regularly said, “own your choices.” After years of this, my mental health was suffering so much that I made a transformational decision to walk out of my father’s home, refusing to return. This was hard to do on many fronts: (1) I didn't take my sisters with me that day (and this is something I still regret, since my dad intensified his abusive behavior on them), (2) I wanted to continue to be hopeful that things would get better (for years I hoped he would be a better father. I didn’t need perfection, just something better), and (3) I knew that the decision to leave was going to have very real consequences that were scary. Ultimately, I decided for MY mental health, for MY sanity, and to own my choice to leave. It was on that day that I felt like I had agency over myself, and that I had a stake in what I was going to do with my life. For the first time I gained the confidence to choose myself. As I dealt with the consequences with the police, the fallout with my dad, and the legal ramifications, I learned how capable I truly was. I discovered my inner strength and the reassurance that I could not only handle my decisions but I had people in my corner I could count on when I made them. My decision set off a chain of future decisions. A few months after I left, my sisters refused to transition to my dad’s house and my mom hired an attorney and was later awarded full custody of all of us. My dad and I are working on our relationship, but I know that I need to be authentic to define the man I want to be, to live the life I want to live, and to go after my dreams. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marks a significant milestone in my in achieving my dream of becoming a film maker. During college I expect to see my art and my passions for film and photography evolve as I learn and grow in that environment. I will not be achieving my goals alone but honing my skills and craft with other dreamers like myself. Collaborating with fellow artists will not only sharpen my skills but also foster a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of filmmaking. What I truly love about making movies is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to a finished production. For me, it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their POV visually. My dream is not only be apart of that space but to create it in my life.

"Are you sure? Is this what you really want to do with your life? Can you make a living this way?" Those were the questions my father posed when I decided on the path of pursuing my passion in the arts. His doubts sometimes echoed in my mind as I navigated through the uncertainties of pursuing a creative career. Despite facing skepticism and minimal support from those close to me, I never wavered in my decision. I remained steadfast in my commitment to share my creativity and artistry with the world, unwavering in my pursuit of a fulfilling artistic career. I am proud and will always be proud to share my creativity and art with the world. Nothing is going to change that. Relationship with my art has and will always be a fluid one. As a kid I was always curious about nature and the natural world. Instead of Spongebob I would watch National Geographic; which definitely helped my already socially awkward self relate to kids my age (lol). Through my love for NatGeo, I fell in love with photography and documentaries highlighting the beautiful fragility of our world. For a time my art was exclusively photographic, then in middle school I realized how much I loved to make up stories and characters. A teacher saw this and suggested I start putting them on paper. Again my art evolved, I became as much a writer as a photographer. As much as I loved writing I was always a visual person. Around my freshman year of high school my art evolved again. I realized I could combine my photography and writing skills into one collaborative medium: Film. With each new artistic endeavor, I honed my skills and expanded my creative horizons, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey, providing me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration. There I will continue on my journey to create films that inspire. Also, through my films I hope to give voice to underrepresented people in the entertainment industry. Throughout college I continue to expect to see my art evolve as I learn and grow in that environment. I will be not only growing alone but honing my skills and craft with other artists like myself. What I truly love about making movies is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to finish production. For me it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their voices. In my artistic pursuits, I seek to capture moments of wonder, joy, and resilience, weaving narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether through photography, film, or writing, I hope to inspire people to dream big, expand the world around them, and to live life with an open mind. With each aperture, frame, or word, I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world, sharing my unique perspective and celebrating the boundless possibilities of the creative spirit.

My relationship with my art has and will always be a fluid one. As a kid I was always curious about nature and the natural world. Instead of Spongebob I would watch National Geographic; which definitely helped my already socially awkward self relate to kids my age (lol). Through my love for NatGeo, I fell in love with photography and documentaries highlighting the beautiful fragility of our world. For a time my art was exclusively photographic, then in middle school I realized how much I loved to make up stories and characters. A teacher saw this and suggested I start putting them on paper. Again my art evolved, I became as much a writer as a photographer. As much as I loved writing I was always a visual person. Around my freshman year of high school my art evolved again. I realized I could combine my photography and writing skills into one collaborative medium: Film. With each new artistic endeavor, I honed my skills and expanded my creative horizons, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey, providing me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration. There I will continue on my journey to create films that inspire. Also, through my films I hope to give voice to underrepresented people in the entertainment industry. Throughout college I continue to expect to see my art evolve as I learn and grow in that environment. I will be not only growing alone but honing my skills and craft with other artists like myself. What I truly love about making movies is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to finish production. For me it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their voices. In my artistic pursuits, I seek to capture moments of wonder, joy, and resilience, weaving narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether through photography, film, or writing, I hope to inspire people to dream big, expand the world around them, and to live life with an open mind. With each aperture, frame, or word, I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world, sharing my unique perspective and celebrating the boundless possibilities of the creative spirit.

Throughout my life, it has become increasingly evident that I am forging my own unique path. In various environments, I have consistently found myself as an outlier. As a young Black male, my interests always appeared to diverge from the norm. In my neighborhood, most boys who looked like me were drawn to basketball or football. While in school, I am often the only Black male participating in the most advanced math and college-level courses, joining sports not typically associated with my racial background (i.e. tennis, swimming), and taking the lead in my school's theater production program. This reality has been a fundamental aspect of my identity for the majority of my life and shaped my formative years. Navigating this sense of isolation was challenging, as I consistently found myself standing out in environments where I sought to belong. However, in the fourth grade, my family relocated to a predominantly white school district. My passion for films, photography, and languages continued to set me apart from my Black peers. Ironically, it was during this same period that I finally met like-minded students, who also had similar passions, but these students did not look like me. The more I followed my passions, the more I found kindred spirits of all diverse backgrounds. Unfortunately, I still found myself as the sole Black student in my digital photography class, AP Chemistry classes, and Chinese language classes. This is a problem because not seeing representation in my academic pursuits felt isolating. I was deemed too quirky and smart to be with Black students, and a unicorn, or a rare exception, among non-Black students. Seeing students like me would have meant that I wasn’t alone and that my peers would know that Black students have the capacity to take these types of courses. As I progressed through high school and received lessons about being a Black male in society, I began to view my situation differently. I was not merely pursuing my interests alongside individuals I couldn't relate to or as the solo representation of my race, I was blazing a trail for others like me. I was not just an enthusiast of the arts; I was a leader, a person with whom other Black students could identify. I was actively shaping a cultural norm for others to follow. I believe that my journey venturing into uncharted territories academically and socially while pursuing my passions has been one of both self-discovery and advocacy. I have become a trailblazer, paving the way for other Black students to explore their interests, especially if they don’t fit the norms. As a leader in my school's theater community, I offer a platform for more Black students to engage in the arts. I also established a film club, providing a space for diverse film enthusiasts to collaborate and create together. This is a vision I would bring to any place I go to after High School in hopes of furthering paths for Black males in higher education.

My earliest memory of film goes back to when I was just 5 years old. It was my dad who first introduced me to the world of cinema, particularly his love for Bruce Lee and martial arts films. The movie that sparked my passion was 'Return of The Dragon,' and ever since that moment, the realm of film has held me in its grasp. Beyond being a mere pastime, cinema is an art form that I am deeply passionate about, a passion that I share with countless others. What truly fascinates me about cinema is its ability to craft narratives and breathe life into characters. This unique power of film to transport us to both familiar and fantastical worlds has left an indelible mark on me. Whether it's the iconic superheroes like Deadpool, Black Panther, and Spider-Man or the quiet yet profound journeys of characters like Chihiro from 'Spirited Away' and Seita from 'Grave of the Fireflies,' I am constantly awed by film's ability to shape not only our perceptions but also our lives. What I also love about making films is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to the finish production. For me it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their voices. Speaking of heroes, Spider-Man stands out as a symbol of inspiration and relatability for me. Even at the age of 7, I would proudly declare Spider-Man as my all-time favorite character. In my room, there's a picture of me wearing Spider-Man pajamas that I received as a Christmas gift one year. It was during winter break in 2011 that I first learned about the introduction of the first Black Spider-Man (Miles Morales) in comic books. This revelation profoundly inspired me, as I finally had a hero I could genuinely identify with. In recent years, the films featuring Miles Morales have pushed me to aim higher. I vividly remember the confidence and empowerment I felt after watching 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' in 2018. Not only was it a groundbreaking animated masterpiece that continues to influence the industry, but it also instilled newfound self-confidence in me. The 'leap of faith' scene from the movie holds immense significance for me, particularly as I navigated the college application process. Miles' family dynamic with his mom mirrors my own relationship with my mom and her unwavering support and confidence that I will achieve great things, regardless of where life takes me. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marked a significant milestone in my journey, providing me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration. There I will continue on my journey to create films that capture moments of wonder, joy, and resilience, weaving narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. I hope to inspire people to dream big, expand the world around them, and to live life with an open mind. I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world, sharing my unique perspective and celebrating the boundless possibilities of the creative spirit.

My greatest challenge was when I decided to protect my mental health. Choosing between my parents after a divorce is one of the most difficult decisions that changed my life. I was seven years old when my parents divorced and for the next eight years they shared custody of my two little sisters and I. We’d spend one week with mom and one week with dad, alternating every Sunday. Transition Sundays caused me so much mental anxiety and severe stress. These years were not easy because my parents have very different parenting styles, which made switching between households like living a double life. At my dad’s, I experienced years of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. There was a lack of freedom and intentional isolation from friends and family. I was forced to be a version of my dad, not being allowed to be my own person. At 15 years old, I lacked the basic skills of ordering my own food, picking out my own clothes, or making simple decisions for myself. At my mom’s, I experienced her encouraging us to have opinions and explore our preferences. She regularly said, “own your choices.” After years of this, my mental health was suffering so much that I made a transformational decision to walk out of my father’s home, refusing to return. This was hard to do on many fronts: (1) I didn't take my sisters with me that day (and this is something I still regret, since my dad intensified his abusive behavior on them), (2) I wanted to continue to be hopeful that things would get better (for years I hoped he would be a better father. I didn’t need perfection, just something better), and (3) I knew that the decision to leave was going to have very real consequences that were scary. Ultimately, I decided for MY mental health, for MY sanity, and to own my choice to leave. It was on that day that I felt like I had agency over myself, and that I had a stake in what I was going to do with my life and the goals I set. For the first time I gained the confidence to choose myself. As I dealt with the consequences with the police, the fallout with my dad, and the legal ramifications, I learned how capable I truly was. I discovered my inner strength and the reassurance that I could not only handle my decisions but I had people in my corner I could count on when I made them. My decision set off a chain of future decisions. A few months after I left, my sisters refused to transition to my dad’s house and my mom hired an attorney and was later awarded full custody of all of us. My dad and I are working on our relationship, but I know that I need to be authentic to define the man I want to be, to live the life I want to live, and to go after my dreams. My experience with mental health has taught me agency and advocacy for myself and for others. I learned that family relationships aren't exempt from the criteria I set to protect myself. I learned that seeking help is the safest and strongest way to move out of despair. Today, I actively see a therapist to manage anxiety and PTSD from the abuse. As I move on to college (and the world), I feel prepared to seek counseling resources and supports on campus to ensure I continue to thrive.

Throughout my life, it has become increasingly evident that I am forging my own unique path. In various environments, I have consistently found myself as an outlier. As a young Black male, my interests always appeared to diverge from the norm. In my neighborhood, most boys who looked like me were drawn to basketball or football. While in school, I am often the only Black male participating in the most advanced math and college-level courses, joining sports not typically associated with my racial background (i.e. tennis, swimming), and taking the lead in my school's theater production program. This reality has been a fundamental aspect of my identity for the majority of my life and shaped my formative years. Navigating this sense of isolation was challenging, as I consistently found myself standing out in environments where I sought to belong. However, in the fourth grade, my family relocated to a predominantly white school district. My passion for films, photography, and languages continued to set me apart from my Black peers. Ironically, it was during this same period that I finally met like-minded students, who also had similar passions, but these students did not look like me. The more I followed my passions, the more I found kindred spirits of all diverse backgrounds. Unfortunately, I still found myself as the sole Black student in my digital photography class, AP Chemistry classes, and Chinese language classes. This is a problem because not seeing representation in my academic pursuits felt isolating. I was deemed too quirky and smart to be with Black students, and a unicorn, or a rare exception, among non-Black students. Seeing students like me would have meant that I wasn’t alone and that my peers would know that Black students have the capacity to take these types of courses. As I progressed through high school and received lessons about being a Black male in society, I began to view my situation differently. I was not merely pursuing my interests alongside individuals I couldn't relate to or as the solo representation of my race, I was blazing a trail for others like me. I was not just an enthusiast of the arts; I was a leader, a person with whom other Black students could identify. I was actively shaping a cultural norm for others to follow. I believe that my journey venturing into uncharted territories academically and socially while pursuing my passions has been one of both self-discovery and advocacy. I have become a trailblazer, paving the way for other Black students to explore their interests, especially if they don’t fit the norms. As a leader in my school's theater community, I offer a platform for more Black students to engage in the arts. I also established a film club, providing a space for diverse film enthusiasts to collaborate and create together. This is a vision I would bring to any place I go to after High School in hopes of furthering paths for Black males in higher education. My advice to a student who faces isolation is to consider reshaping the narrative you're telling yourself. Your isolation could be considered an opportunity to bring others like you to that arena or to allow you to chart a new path while forming diverse bonds with people who share your passions but maybe not your skin color.

My earliest memory of film goes back to when I was just 5 years old. It was my dad who first introduced me to the world of cinema, particularly his love for Bruce Lee and martial arts films. The movie that sparked my passion was 'Return of The Dragon,' and ever since that moment, the realm of film has held me in its grasp, making my dad one of the biggest influences in my life and my future career. Beyond being a mere pastime, cinema is an art form that I am deeply passionate about. What truly fascinates me about cinema is its ability to craft narratives and breathe life into characters. This unique power of film to transport us to both familiar and fantastical worlds has left a mark on me. Whether it's the iconic superheroes like Deadpool, Black Panther, and Spider-Man or the quiet yet profound journeys of characters like Chihiro from 'Spirited Away' and Seita from 'Grave of the Fireflies,' I am constantly awed by film's ability to shape not only our perceptions but also our lives. Looking ahead to life after graduation, I am excited to leverage my artistic skills to innovate and positively influence audiences. Whether it's through screenwriting, directing or creating impactful lighting and set designs, I am committed to making a difference and leaving a mark in the creative world of TV and Film Production. By embracing new technologies, exploring unconventional mediums, and challenging conventional norms, I aspire to craft impactful stories, and thoughtful characters to push boundaries. Going beyond the boundaries isn’t new for me. My passion and drive to explore, travel and learn languages is something I see as a core part of who I am and what sets my artistic gift apart. For me, being curious and open minded are important to being creative. Influenced by my love of martial films, I’ve been studying Mandarin since the 4th grade and teaching myself Japanese since 7th grade. I can now watch many martial art films and anime in their original language without subtitles. Last summer I went to Japan for a 10-day, 6-city trip that gave me the ability to explore the geography, the culture, the history and the food, and the freedom to let my curiosity run wild. I loved meeting the people in Japan, because they were so tolerant and generous. They often complimented me about my broken Japanese. The admiration and respect I received for trying to communicate in their language continues to inspire me to further my language skills. When I travel and seek out new experiences, I am creating opportunities for self-discovery and to make connections that expand and grow my artistic point of view. This makes my distinct approach to art unique and allows me to offer a fresh and compelling perspective. I strive to create art that resonates deeply with viewers and sparks meaningful conversations. As a visual representation of my artistic journey, I have included a selection of photos that include pictures from my trip to Japan. These pieces not only showcase my artistic skills in photography and editing but also my commitment to innovation and creativity.

In 2020, I started high school during the pandemic and there were few spaces virtually to express myself artistically. The next year, I found a new outlet for self-expression when I joined the theater program at Crofton High School. Now, as the head lighting designer and programmer, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in the art of light design. Over the past three years, we've produced remarkable shows, drawing inspiration from various sources. One experience that profoundly influenced my approach to light design was attending a performance of 'Hamilton' at The Hippodrome Theatre in Baltimore in 2021 as a field trip. While many praised the popular musical for its musical eloquence, fantastic acting and succinct choreography, I was captivated by the intricate lighting and set design. The lights told a story not only in color but in form and movement. Each beam made a purposeful decision that enhanced the story and actors. The set worked seamlessly to create a world bigger than the stage it was performed on. I wish I could see it for the first time all over again. The way lighting and set elements seamlessly blended to enhance the storytelling left a lasting impression on me. Since then, I've strived to incorporate similar techniques into my own work, aiming to create immersive experiences for audiences. Whenever someone compliments the lighting I feel pride knowing that what I learned from my experience seeing Hamilton in Baltimore has made me a more complete artist.

When I started high school, my sole focus was academics. My goal was to maintain a 4.0+ GPA, viewing high school as a mere pit stop on my journey to college. I have my mother to thank for encouraging me to discover something to be a part of during high school. She insisted that I not wait until college to have a life. In my sophomore year, I joined the theater tech crew on the lights team for the production of Pride and Prejudice. I didn’t know anyone or how to do anything, and since my high school was newly built in 2019, and opened to only virtual students in 2020, we had brand new equipment but no established crew to help train us in 2021. Despite the challenges of navigating new equipment and establishing a tech team from scratch, this journey ignited a passion for theater tech production within me. In our journey of growing as a tech team we learned that our efforts to be the best positively affected our community. Our production of Newsies in 2022 garnered praise and support from members of our community and from people outside our county. An actor and star of the Newsies Broadway production, Jeremy Jordan, sent a video to congratulate us on our opening night. We knew that the joy and awe we brought to the stage made people happier than when they left. For our production of Mary Poppins, we put so much effort in tech (lights, sound, set, props, costumes, house) to produce the magic that people saw on stage. Hearing people who saw the show tell everyone they know that Mary Poppins is the best show they've seen on a high school stage was so satisfying. For each production, we also hosted a show for nearby elementary school students and future high schoolers from the middle school. This is when my passion for this extracurricular comes full circle. I gave these young students tours of the tech booth and the lighting board. It gave me so much pride to hear them say that they're excited about tech production and they want to be a member of the Crofton High Cardinal Players one day. I also volunteer with my former middle school theater production shows to help them set up, run the show and train their middle school age tech team. Giving back to my community in this way helps future high school techies with their productions and train the next generation of tech crews. Seeing and supporting the future of theater tech helps me know that the community we built and the community we served has had such a big impact on not only me but them as well. I still maintained a 4.0 all four years, but I gained a passion that led me to my professional goal to pursue Film and TV Production at New York University. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of higher education but also provide me with the opportunity to continue my journey creating. What truly inspires me about theater and cinema is its ability to craft narratives and breathe life into characters. This unique power of theater, TV and film to transport us to both familiar and fantastical worlds has left an indelible mark on me. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and utilizing it to its fullest potential.

"Are you sure? Is this what you really want to do with your life? Can you make a living this way?" Those were the questions my father posed when I decided on the path of pursuing my passion in the arts. His doubts sometimes echoed in my mind as I navigated through the uncertainties of pursuing a creative career. Despite facing skepticism and minimal support from those close to me, I never wavered in my decision. I remained steadfast in my commitment to share my creativity and artistry with the world, unwavering in my pursuit of a fulfilling artistic career. I am proud and will always be proud to share my creativity and art with the world. Nothing is going to change that. Relationship with my art has and will always be a fluid one. As a kid I was always curious about nature and the natural world. Instead of Spongebob I would watch National Geographic; which definitely helped my already socially awkward self relate to kids my age (lol). Through my love for NatGeo, I fell in love with photography and documentaries highlighting the beautiful fragility of our world. For a time my art was exclusively photographic, then in middle school I realized how much I loved to make up stories and characters. A teacher saw this and suggested I start putting them on paper. Again my art evolved, I became as much a writer as a photographer. As much as I loved writing I was always a visual person. Around my freshman year of high school my art evolved again. I realized I could combine my photography and writing skills into one collaborative medium: Film. With each new artistic endeavor, I honed my skills and expanded my creative horizons, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. My acceptance into New York University's prestigious Film and Television Production program marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey, providing me with unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration. There I will continue on my journey to create films that inspire. Also, through my films I hope to give voice to underrepresented people in the entertainment industry. Throughout college I continue to expect to see my art evolve as I learn and grow in that environment. I will be not only growing alone but honing my skills and craft with other artists like myself. What I truly love about making movies is how many different artists and disciplines it incorporates to get to finish production. For me it is truly what art represents – a space for hundreds of artists to work together in harmony to share their voices. In my artistic pursuits, I seek to capture moments of wonder, joy, and resilience, weaving narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether through photography, film, or writing, I hope to inspire people to dream big, expand the world around them, and to live life with an open mind. With each aperture, frame, or word, I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world, sharing my unique perspective and celebrating the boundless possibilities of the creative spirit.