Attending an HBCU is more than just an educational choice. To me, it is a deeply personal and transformative experience. As a first-generation Haitian American, I recognize the power of education in changing the trajectory of one's life. For me, attending an HBCU is about embracing my culture, history, and identity in a way that affirms my place in the world. It is about being surrounded by people who understand the richness of our heritage and the struggles that have shaped us. One of my greatest passions is advocating for Black excellence in education, especially for Black women. The representation of Black people in higher education is a powerful statement of resilience and progress. Seeing Black women succeed academically and professionally is a testament to our strength and determination. I want to contribute to a future where Black women are supported in their pursuit of higher education and empowered to break barriers in every field. Attending an HBCU, where Black success is the standard, inspires a push for change and ensure that more Black people enter professions where they have historically been underrepresented. Beyond academics, HBCUs provide a sense of belonging that is invaluable for Black students. In a country where our history is often overlooked or rewritten, HBCUs preserve and celebrate our legacy. For me, attending an HBCU is a commitment to my culture, my people, and the future of Black excellence.

To me, charity means to give back to the community and to generally give back as a whole. Charity broadly ranges, from putting money in the church offering basket to donating your time and efforts to causes in need. Charity is not something nice, but an act of the trait of kindness. Charity is important to me because I feel that giving back to communities and causes that you deeply resonate with gives one a sense of appreciation and grounding. As a first-generation Haitian American and a proudly Black woman, when uplifting opportunities and programs occurred in my community (newly immigrated Caribbean and Latinx), I've felt a deep sense of appreciation of charity. In the future I intend to give back by using my career in dentistry to provide support and proper access to health care for communities like mine and those in need. I also have my heart set on coaching and giving time to programs that uplift our future generation.

In the Haitian community it is extremely common for women to become nurses or CNA's, matter of fact, my mother is an RN herself. Growing up I looked up to my mother and those like her. My mother, a registered nurse, was a constant source of inspiration. Watching her dedication to patient care and hearing her stories about the impact she had on the lives of others solidified my interest in the medical field. To me, she was and is a model of how healthcare professionals can make a difference in people's well-being. I knew from a young age that I wanted to follow in her footsteps, but in my own way. I consider myself a strong advocate for Black women in higher education. The representation of Black people in higher education is a powerful statement of resilience and progress. Seeing Black women succeed academically and professionally is a testament to our strength and determination. I want to contribute to a future where Black women are supported in their pursuit of higher education and empowered to break barriers in every field. I also believe deeply in the importance of Black representation in medicine and leadership roles. I am pursuing a major in biology because of my deep fascination with medicine, science, and the intricate ways in which the human body functions. From an early age, I was drawn to the sciences. This curiosity was fueled by my frequent trips to the dentist as a child due to orthodontic issues. While some children dreaded these visits, I found myself intrigued by the procedures, the tools used, and the precision required to improve oral health. These experiences planted the seed for my passion for medicine and my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. My experiences visiting the dentist, coupled with my love for biology, led me to develop a strong interest in medicine. The more I learned about my own dental inquiries and the human body, the more I realized how much I wanted to contribute to the field of healthcare. Studying biology provides me with the foundation to explore various aspects of medicine. Through this major, I am gaining the knowledge necessary to pursue my goal of becoming a healthcare professional who can provide quality care to underserved communities, much like the one I grew up in. Ultimately, my upcoming from childhood as well as what I experience, and my beliefs now are what have influenced and shaped my interest in a STEM field. Not only is biology a cool and fun study, through my field I hope to create a ripple effect that leads to lasting change.

Ever since I was in elementary school, I knew that college was not just a place for me to go after I graduate, but a space for me. Going to college is important to me because it fosters the growth mindset. College to me serves as a threshold of open opportunities to learn, find yourself, and to discover your purpose. The moments leading up to going to college and first arriving was extremely exciting. Throughout my childhood all things science always captured my interest, from space and the universe to robots, to human anatomy. I knew that going to college was something I wanted to do to further broaden my knowledge of more specifically, biology. While I should've already known, I came quick to the realization that college was more than just reading and taking exams. College is the pre-experience in preparation for the life experience. College is the beginning of my journey of self. I did not realize it before, but college is the first place/space that truly challenged me directly. Who am I? In high school I thought I had it all figured out, I thought I knew everything that I could possibly know about myself. I mean, why wouldn't I? While I was confident that I was ready, college challenged my depiction. Before anything, one must find and be in comfort with themselves. Still navigating who I am, the college experience helps plentiful in that aspect. To start, what I want to get out of my college experience is a true sense of self. I want my college experience to be about more than just academics. I want it to be a time of transformation, growth, and alignment with who I truly am. I want to leave college not only with a degree, but with confidence in my voice, pride in my identity, and meaningful connections. I want to grow mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. Out of my college experience I want to grow and fully embrace the person I truly am, and not the person who I think I need to be. Aside from finding myself and evolving into a greater version of myself, I want to use my developed skills and new career to give back. By pursuing my goals, I aim to uplift those around me and ensure that the next generation has better opportunities. My journey as a first-generation Haitian American has given me a unique perspective on the struggles my community faces. Inspired by my childhood experiences I am determined to improve my community through accessible care and programs. By addressing these crucial areas, I hope to create a ripple effect that leads to lasting change. I want to be a source of hope and transformation for the people who need it most. Going to college is important to me because it represents freedom, growth, and opportunity. It’s a chance for me to take control of my future, explore who I am, and become the person I’m meant to be. The college experience is not just something for me to experience, but my journey towards elevation and building my life and personal community.

I am pursuing a major in biology because of my deep fascination with medicine, science, and the intricate ways in which the human body functions. From an early age, I was drawn to the sciences. This curiosity was fueled by my frequent trips to the dentist as a child due to orthodontic issues. While some children dreaded these visits, I found myself intrigued by the procedures, the tools used, and the precision required to improve oral health. These experiences planted the seed for my passion for medicine and my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. Born and raised in South Florida, growing up as a first-generation Haitian American I was always aware of the importance of healthcare in my community. My mother, a registered nurse, was a constant source of inspiration. Watching her dedication to patient care and hearing her stories about the impact she had on the lives of others solidified my interest in the medical field. She showed me how healthcare professionals can make a difference in people's well-being, and I knew from a young age that I wanted to follow in her footsteps in my own way. My experiences visiting the dentist, coupled with my love for biology, led me to develop a strong interest in medicine. The more I learned about my own dental inquiries and the human body, the more I realized how much I wanted to contribute to the field of healthcare. Studying biology provides me with the foundation to explore various aspects of medicine. Through this major, I am gaining the knowledge necessary to pursue my goal of becoming a healthcare professional who can provide quality care to underserved communities, much like the one I grew up in. Historically Black Colleges/Universities have historically played a crucial role in producing Black doctors, scientists, and medical professionals, and I strive to and am proud to become a part of the legacy of so. Representation in medicine is vital, and I am committed to being part of the next generation of Black healthcare professionals who will address disparities in medical care and improve access for marginalized communities. Moreover, being in an institution that values culture, history, and empowerment gives me a sense of belonging that is invaluable. I believe that my education at an HBCU will not only prepare me academically but will also instill the confidence and leadership skills necessary to excel in the medical field. Ultimately, my passion for biology stems from my lifelong interest in science, my personal experiences with healthcare, and my deep-seated desire to make a meaningful impact in the medical field. My mother’s career as an RN, my frequent childhood dentist visits, and my exposure to the challenges faced by underserved communities have all shaped my aspirations. Through my studies, I hope to contribute to a future where more Black professionals enter the medical field, where healthcare is more accessible, and where young students of color are inspired to pursue careers in science and medicine.

Attending an HBCU is more than just an educational choice. To me, it is a deeply personal and transformative experience. As a first-generation Haitian American, I recognize the power of education in changing the trajectory of one's life. For me, attending an HBCU is about embracing my culture, history, and identity in a way that affirms my place in the world. It is about being surrounded by people who understand the richness of our heritage and the struggles that have shaped us. One of my greatest passions is advocating for Black excellence in education, especially for Black women. The representation of Black people in higher education is a powerful statement of resilience and progress. Seeing Black women succeed academically and professionally is a testament to our strength and determination. I want to contribute to a future where Black women are supported in their pursuit of higher education and empowered to break barriers in every field. I also believe deeply in the importance of Black representation in medicine and leadership roles. The lack of Black doctors and professionals in high positions is not due to a lack of ability but a lack of opportunity and representation. Attending an HBCU, where Black success is the standard, inspires a push for change and ensure that more Black people enter professions where they have historically been underrepresented. Beyond academics, HBCUs provide a sense of belonging that is invaluable for Black students. In a country where our history is often overlooked or rewritten, HBCUs preserve and celebrate our legacy. They instill pride, confidence, and a sense of purpose that extends beyond the classroom. For me, attending an HBCU is a commitment to my culture, my people, and the future of Black excellence. Growing up a first-generation Haitian American in Naples, Florida, I have always been deeply connected to my community. Raised around fellow first generation and immigrated families in East Naples, I experienced firsthand the challenges that many families like mine faced. Despite these challenges, my upbringing shaped my ambitions and instilled in me a strong desire to give back. One of the most impactful experiences of my childhood was visiting a government-funded dental clinic for low-income families. Those visits sparked my curiosity and ultimately led to my aspiration of becoming a dentist. Additionally, my involvement in teaching Sunday school at my Haitian church showed me the importance of guiding and mentoring younger generations. Given the opportunity, I would work to improve my community by increasing access to quality dental care and creating mentorship programs for children from similar backgrounds. Dental health is an essential but often overlooked aspect of overall well-being, particularly in underserved communities. I witnessed how many families, including my own, depended on government-funded clinics because they could not afford private dental care. These clinics provided a necessary service, but limited resources and an uncertain future for Americas healthcare, especially for immigrants, it is uncertain if people truly receive the level of care they need. As a future dentist, I am committed to addressing this issue by providing affordable and accessible dental care to low-income families. By striving toward my goals, I hope to reduce the long-term health issues that arise from inadequate dental care and improve the quality of life for many families in my community. Beyond healthcare, I also want to make a lasting impact on the lives of children who, like me, grew up in challenging circumstances. Teaching Sunday school at my Haitian church allowed me to connect with young minds and witness the power of mentorship and guidance. Many children in my community face difficulties such as language barriers, financial instability, and a lack of access to academic resources. I want to create and support youth programs that provide educational support, career guidance, and personal development opportunities. The importance of improving my community goes beyond just providing services, it is about creating opportunities and fostering hope. My experiences have shaped me into someone who not only dreams but takes action. By pursuing my aspirations, I aim to uplift those around me and ensure that the next generation has better opportunities. My journey as a first-generation Haitian American has given me a unique perspective on the struggles my community faces. Inspired by my childhood experiences I am determined to improve my community through accessible care and programs. By addressing these crucial areas, I hope to create a ripple effect that leads to lasting change. My vision is to be more than just a healthcare provider—I want to be a source of hope and transformation for the people who need it most.

Growing up as a first-generation Haitian American in Naples, Florida, I have always been deeply connected to my community. Raised around fellow first generation and immigrated families in East Naples, I experienced firsthand the challenges that many families like mine faced. Despite these challenges, my upbringing shaped my ambitions and instilled in me a strong desire to give back. One of the most impactful experiences of my childhood was visiting a government-funded dental clinic for low-income families. Those visits sparked my curiosity and ultimately led to my aspiration of becoming a dentist. Additionally, my involvement in teaching Sunday school at my Haitian church showed me the importance of guiding and mentoring younger generations. Given the opportunity, I would work to improve my community by increasing access to quality dental care and creating mentorship programs for children from similar backgrounds. Dental health is an essential but often overlooked aspect of overall well-being, particularly in underserved communities. I witnessed how many families, including my own, depended on government-funded clinics because they could not afford private dental care. These clinics provided a necessary service, but limited resources and an uncertain future for Americas healthcare, especially for immigrants, it is uncertain if people truly receive the level of care they need. As a future dentist, I am committed to addressing this issue by providing affordable and accessible dental care to low-income families. By striving toward my goals, I hope to reduce the long-term health issues that arise from inadequate dental care and improve the quality of life for many families in my community. Beyond healthcare, I also want to make a lasting impact on the lives of children who, like me, grew up in challenging circumstances. Teaching Sunday school at my Haitian church allowed me to connect with young minds and witness the power of mentorship and guidance. Many children in my community face difficulties such as language barriers, financial instability, and a lack of access to academic resources. I want to create and support youth programs that provide educational support, career guidance, and personal development opportunities. The importance of improving my community goes beyond just providing services, it is about creating opportunities and fostering hope. My experiences have shaped me into someone who not only dreams but takes action. By pursuing my aspirations, I aim to uplift those around me and ensure that the next generation has better opportunities. My journey as a first-generation Haitian American has given me a unique perspective on the struggles my community faces. Inspired by my childhood experiences I am determined to improve my community through accessible care and programs. By addressing these crucial areas, I hope to create a ripple effect that leads to lasting change. My vision is to be more than just a healthcare provider—I want to be a source of hope and transformation for the people who need it most.

I grew up in a community that was extremely divided yet coexisted in a great cultural harmony. Growing up in Naples, Florida was like growing up in an actual melting pot, for I grew up around mostly Haitians, Mexicans, Cubans, Puerto Ricans and other Latinx and Caribbean U.S residents. Growing up a first-generation Haitian American has been the spine to what I strive for. In the Haitian community it is extremely common for women to become nurses or CNA's, matter of fact, my mother is an RN herself. Growing up I looked up to my women and those like her, striving towards a career in the health field has always been my dream. Throughout elementary and middle school, I was constantly in and out of the dentist's office. These constant and reoccurring visits sparked my interest in the dental world. Seeing pictures of my own x-rays and seeing how my teeth and jaw moved and aligned over years sparked and grew my interests more and more. From elementary school to middle school, I went to a dentist that catered to the lower to lower/middle class population of Naples (which were mostly Haitians and Hispanics) and the memories from my visits are what drives me to pursue my career. Throughout mainly elementary and middle school (and early high school, pre-covid) going and participating with the Sunday school at my church came routinely. As time went on, people began to move and COVID hit, therefore we began to lose consistency in members. As time grew, so did I. I've always done good at school and academics, having passing state tests with the highest scores in reading and math, retaining my title of being an honor-roll student from 7th to 12th grade, and graduating with a 4.8 GPA (Summa Cum Laude), in 2020 I decided to step up to the plate and assist my mother in leading the Sunday school for children. Volunteering as a Sunday school teaching assistant was a nice outlook for what serving my community feels to me. Another way I enjoyed serving my community was through volunteering with National Honors Society. Through National Honors Society I was able to serve my community through service and volunteering, and I loved signing up for things as simple as serving concession stands or even helping at a basketball game. Back to my early childhood, no child loves going to the doctors. Yet, the thought of seeing other kids that I can interact with while in the extremely large lobby of the dentist's offices were what also made the visits for me. Where I'm from, being highly populated with Haitian and Hispanic immigrants and first-generation children have made me greatly value my community and the meaning of it. I strive to become an orthodontist and help and give back to my community, and those alike, in dental need.