In the vast realm of performing arts, I have found my passion and purpose within the captivating world of film. From the tender age of 12, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and creativity, wielding a camera as my instrument and the screen as my canvas. Over the years, my devotion to filmmaking has deepened, shaping not only my skills but also my aspirations for the future. My fascination with film began innocently, as a hobby fueled by boundless imagination and a desire to capture fleeting moments. Armed with a simple camera and an abundance of enthusiasm, I ventured into the realm of storytelling, experimenting with different genres, techniques, and narratives. With each project, I honed my craft, learning the intricacies of cinematography, editing, and directing while discovering my unique voice as a filmmaker. As the years passed, my passion for filmmaking blossomed into a dedicated pursuit of excellence. I immersed myself in the study of cinema, devouring classic films, dissecting their compositions, and analyzing the techniques of renowned auteurs. Through formal education and hands-on experience, I refined my technical skills, studying film theory, scriptwriting, and production management to complement my creative instincts. Now, with years of dedication under my belt, I stand at the threshold of a promising future in the film industry. My long-term goal is not merely to find success in Hollywood but to make a meaningful impact through my art. I envision myself as a visionary filmmaker, weaving stories that resonate with audiences on a profound level, igniting emotions, sparking conversations, and inspiring change. In the competitive landscape of Hollywood, I aspire to carve out a niche for myself as a storyteller with a distinct voice and a bold vision. Whether through compelling narratives, groundbreaking visuals, or thought-provoking themes, I aim to push the boundaries of cinematic expression, challenging conventions and sparking innovation in an ever-evolving industry. Beyond the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown, my ultimate goal is to use my platform to uplift and empower others. I believe in the transformative power of storytelling to bridge divides, foster empathy, and instill hope in the hearts of viewers around the globe. Through my films, I aspire to shed light on pressing social issues, amplify marginalized voices, and inspire positive change in the world. In conclusion, my journey into the world of film has been a labor of love, fueled by passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From humble beginnings as a curious teenager with a camera to aspiring filmmaker with lofty ambitions, I am committed to realizing my dreams and making a lasting impact through the art of cinema. With each frame I capture and each story I tell, I am one step closer to fulfilling my destiny as a storyteller, entertainer, and catalyst for change in the world of performing arts.

As a low-income, independent student striving to make ends meet while pursuing a college education, the significance of this scholarship opportunity cannot be overstated. With dreams as vast as the desert skies of Arizona, I envision myself graduating from Arizona State University with a degree in Film, equipped to harness the power of storytelling to unite people from all walks of life. Living independently and working full-time, I have tasted the bitterness of adversity and the sweetness of perseverance. Every day is a testament to my resilience and determination to carve out a better future for myself. However, financial constraints often loom like shadows, threatening to dim the light of my aspirations. This scholarship, therefore, serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards realizing my ambitions. My passion for film transcends mere entertainment; it is a medium through which I aspire to bridge divides and foster inclusivity. Having experienced the challenges of solitude and self-reliance, I am inspired to create narratives that resonate with individuals who, like me, have felt the weight of isolation. Through my cinematic endeavors, I seek to cultivate a sense of belonging and community, offering solace to those who may feel disconnected from the world around them. Arizona State University, with its renowned film program, stands as the gateway to my aspirations. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and guidance from esteemed faculty members, I am confident in my ability to hone my craft and bring my creative visions to life. However, the road to success is paved with financial obstacles that threaten to derail my journey. This scholarship would not only alleviate the burden of tuition and living expenses but also afford me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in my studies and extracurricular pursuits. Beyond the confines of the classroom, I envision myself actively engaging with communities, using film as a tool for social change and empowerment. Whether through documentary filmmaking, narrative storytelling, or experimental projects, I am committed to amplifying voices that are often marginalized and overlooked. By shedding light on untold stories and championing diversity, I hope to foster empathy and understanding among audiences worldwide. Moreover, this scholarship represents more than just financial assistance; it is a vote of confidence in my abilities and potential. It reaffirms that my dreams are valid and worth pursuing, regardless of my socioeconomic background. With each frame I capture and each story I tell, I am reminded of the transformative power of art to transcend barriers and touch the hearts of humanity. In conclusion, receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burdens weighing heavily on my shoulders but also propel me closer to my ultimate goal of graduating from Arizona State University with a degree in Film. With unwavering determination and a fervent desire to make a positive impact, I am ready to embark on this journey, armed with the tools and resources necessary to turn my dreams into reality. Together, we can illuminate the world with the transformative power of storytelling, fostering a sense of togetherness and community that knows no bounds.

As an individual of Black and Native American descent, my journey has been shaped by the rich tapestry of cultures and experiences that define my identity. Raised in a loving adoptive family, I have always felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities afforded to me. From an early age, I was instilled with the values of compassion, empathy, and the importance of giving back to others. One of the ways I actively contribute to my family and community is through my annual volunteer work at an animal shelter. Each summer, I dedicate my time and energy to caring for and advocating on behalf of animals in need. This experience has not only deepened my appreciation for the bond between humans and animals but has also taught me invaluable lessons about responsibility, empathy, and the power of collective action. At the animal shelter, I am tasked with a variety of responsibilities, from cleaning cages and feeding animals to providing companionship and support to those awaiting adoption. Through these tasks, I have developed a profound understanding of the importance of empathy and compassion in fostering a sense of community and belonging. Whether it's comforting a scared animal or celebrating the joy of a successful adoption, every interaction reaffirms my commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Furthermore, my volunteer work at the animal shelter serves as a testament to my belief in the importance of diversity and inclusion. As a person of mixed heritage, I am keenly aware of the power of embracing diversity and celebrating the unique contributions of individuals from all walks of life. By actively engaging with my community and advocating for those in need, I strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Looking towards the future, I am committed to sustaining my involvement in community service post-college. Inspired by my experiences at the animal shelter, I plan to explore opportunities for continued volunteer work, with a focus on issues related to animal welfare, environmental conservation, and social justice. Whether it's through volunteering at local shelters, participating in advocacy campaigns, or supporting grassroots initiatives, I am determined to make a meaningful impact and effect positive change in my community and beyond. In conclusion, my journey of contribution and community involvement has been shaped by my background, experiences, and values. Through my volunteer work at an animal shelter, I have learned the importance of empathy, compassion, and diversity in fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility. Moving forward, I am committed to sustaining my involvement in community service and advocating for issues that are near and dear to my heart. By embracing diversity and actively engaging with my community, I hope to create a more inclusive and equitable world for future generations to come.

College wasn't just about lectures and textbooks; it was about forging my independence. The moment I stepped onto campus, I knew self-funding my education would be a defining achievement. As a young adult yearning for autonomy, I charted a self-made path to higher learning, embracing the financial hurdles that came along. This journey wasn't simply about academics; it was a transformative experience that instilled perseverance, resilience, and an unshakeable sense of self-reliance, shaping me into the person I am today. Growing up, I witnessed my parents' tireless dedication to our family. However, as the eldest child, I recognized that the financial burden of college could be overwhelming for them. Determined to pursue my dreams without relying solely on family support, I became my own financial advocate. Scholarships, part-time jobs across semesters, and ruthless budgeting became the building blocks of my college experience. Every dollar earned, every textbook purchased, every cup of ramen noodles consumed – it was all self-funded, meticulously planned, and a testament to my commitment. This self-made path to college wasn't paved with rose petals. Balancing academics with a demanding work schedule honed my time management skills into a laser focus. There were moments of doubt, nights where the weight of responsibility threatened to topple me. But through the late-night study sessions fueled by instant coffee and the exhaustion that only comes from juggling multiple jobs, I discovered an unwavering determination and a deep belief in my own capabilities. These became the fuel that propelled me forward. The experience of financing and attending college independently was a masterclass in self-reliance. It unearthed a wellspring of inner strength and resourcefulness that I never knew I possessed. It taught me that I held the power to shape my own destiny, brick by brick. Every obstacle I faced became a stepping stone, every hurdle conquered a testament to my work ethic and a shield against adversity. Financial independence wasn't just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it fostered a profound sense of gratitude and humility. Every hard-earned dollar held the weight of sacrifice, each late-night shift a reminder of the dedication it took to chase my dreams. This newfound perspective instilled a deep sense of responsibility, a burning desire to make the most of every opportunity that came my way. Looking towards the future, I am filled with an electrifying mix of excitement and possibility. My college journey, forged in the fires of self-reliance, equipped me with invaluable life lessons. It fueled my aspirations with renewed vigor and a determination that burns brighter than ever before. My education and the experiences I've gained won't simply be on my transcript; they'll be the tools I use to carve a meaningful path in my chosen field. Lifelong learning and personal growth are now woven into the very fabric of my being. Self-funding and attending college independently remains my crowning achievement to date. Through unwavering grit, unyielding resilience, and an unshakeable sense of self-reliance, I conquered financial barriers and built my own success story, brick by brick. This experience is a testament to the power of determination, the transformative power of gratitude, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As I embark on the next chapter, these lessons learned will continue to guide me towards a future brimming with purpose, fulfillment, and endless possibilities.

There is no such thing as a “better” world view. This personal tenet allows me to feel empathy for everybody, including those deemed evil by popular culture. It is not that there is no evil, but it is generally not productive to describe a person as pure evil. A thief, for example, could be starving. Their hunger is certainly not excusatory regarding the person’s misdeed, but understanding the big picture allows us to fairly judge the world and the people within it. Growing up, I always interacted with many individuals of different backgrounds. I spent my elementary years in suburban New Jersey, and my later years in northern Philadelphia. I understand that my upbringing is inherently a limitation to my worldliness; the privilege of being an American from a middle-income household cannot escape my identity. I already feel spoiled to be able to write my essays on a computer that is within my shelter and submit them for a chance to get a more affordable education. I am incredibly grateful for that. Having a socioeconomic advantage is a privileged position, however, one's world view is limited due to this benefit. I translate this into my personal life by the way I treat people from day to day. I try to spread positivity to others to the best of my ability. When I ask somebody for something, I say “please” and “thank you”. Whenever I receive something, I am grateful to the fullest extent. I try not to think of the idea of karma when helping others. Choosing karma means acting empathically for a reward, whereas I act empathetically purely for pleasure.

Diversity refers to the quality or practice of including or involving people from different cultural and ethnic groups, physical appearance, race, education, as well as of different genders and sexual orientations. The recognition and understanding of our differences is just the beginning. Diversity and inclusion are important because they impact all areas of our lives. This gives our culture a variety of perspectives which are helpful in the development of individuals as well as society at large. Growing up, I lived mostly in suburban areas and went to private school until I was in middle school. The world around me was not very diverse, but it was all I knew. Throughout most of my school years, I remember being the only black girl in my class and when we first moved into our neighborhood, our family was the only black family in the neighborhood for sixteen years. Living in this environment, my parents taught me that diversity made us unique, meaning that people can be similar, but each individual is still unique or one of a kind. Although, it was sometimes awkward for me to be the only minority in the room. It was also difficult to connect with some of my peers. As a result, I never had the opportunity to get really close with anyone from such a diverse background. In spite of this, I counted myself extremely lucky to have had such good friends. It wasn't until high school that my small world began to expand, and I decided to compete in pageants. It was an opportunity to challenge myself, meet new people and better understand myself. In discovering the Miss Planetary Pageant, I discovered that it empowered women and created role models to inspire others to conform to sustainable development goals. My first year competing in pageants was very successful. I was noted as a Cultural Teen Ambasador. Being a Cultural Teen Ambassador meant that I would represent my philanthropic cause and inform others about diversity and inclusion. I would attend various events and important meetings such as marathons, adoption events, school assemblies, and township meetings. Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to reach out to and impact a large number of people. My dedication to promoting diversity and philanthropy earned me the title of Miss Teen Somerset County after winning the first phase of the pageant. It would have been impossible for me to meet so many people from different ethnicities and cultures without pageants. In addition to meeting so many amazing women, I learned more about different places in America, their backgrounds and discussed topics that mattered to me. This helped me to broaden my worldview and no longer confine myself to the small world I once knew. Continuing my journey in the pageant world, I was crowned Miss Planetary Teen Black America, an honor that allowed me to inspire young girls from my ethnic background. Throughout the year I presented to a variety of schools and organizations on the topic of expanding and promoting diversity. With such a short timeframe, I made an impact that I'm proud of. From this experience I’ve learned that by having an inclusive and diverse environment, we are able to grow acceptance, gain a richer life experience, and develop new ideas with a more diverse perspective.